China football heads, players in bribery trials

BEIJING (AP) -- Two former heads of China's football association are among eight officials and players on trial for bribery in a major push to punish the wrongdoing that had long tarnished the sport.

Courts in the northeastern province of Liaoning are hearing the cases of Xie Yalong and his successor, Nan Yong. Xie is accused of taking $273,000 in bribes from sports equipment manufacturers, professional clubs, and a former national team coach. Nan is accused of taking at least $160,000 yuan in bribes.

Others on trial include former national team manager Wei Shaohui, former head of referees, Li Dongsheng, and four former national team players.

Chinese football long suffered from the bribing of coaches, players, and officials by gamblers.

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