China didn't make the World Cup but football is booming anyway

Playing in the World Cup has long been a national goal for China. President Xi Jinping has said he hopes China could one day host, and even win the competition, but it's only ever booked a spot once in 2002. Still, Chinese fans aren't just watching the World Cup from the sidelines this year. They've also been cheering for the country's amateur football players. Provincial football leagues that pit cities against one another have become popular in recent months and teams are playing to packed stadiums. CNA Correspondent Krystal Chia takes a deep dive into China's booming amateur football scene.