"I think that might serve as motivation for Taiwanese people to support China if they do well in the World Cup."
Tseng recalled how even some of her pro-Taiwan independence friends celebrated when athletes from China won gold medals at the Sydney Olympics in 2000.
She said: "They jumped up and down, cheered and felt so happy about the achievement, so I think this ethnic pride is still there despite the differences in national identity."
Of course, on an island where baseball and basketball are the most popular sports, football generally takes a back seat and there is not much visible support for China.
And when asked who they will be supporting in the World Cup, many football fans will name more glamorous teams, such as Brazil, Argentina and Italy.
But those claiming to support other teams in the football tournament
nevertheless admit they would feel proud if China did well, particularly if the team does better than expected.
One person summed up the mood when he said: "I don't really follow football so I'm not that interested, but of course I'd be proud if China wins some matches".