China's World Cup Hopes Face Test Against Australia Amidst Challenges

The Chinese national football team prepared for a crucial World Cup Asian qualifier against Australia in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. Head coach Branko Ivankovic expressed the team's readiness for the home game, acknowledging the challenge ahead in their quest to keep their World Cup hopes alive.

The Chinese team entered the match following a defeat in Saudi Arabia, which left them at the bottom of Group C with six points from seven matches. They trailed the third-place Saudis by three points, facing an uphill battle to secure a playoff berth. Ivankovic highlighted Australia's regular World Cup participation, recognizing their superior physical abilities. He also noted the competitive nature of the group, emphasizing the challenges of playing against top Asian teams.

The team faced player shortages due to injuries and suspensions. At least four key players were unavailable, including defender Jiang Guangtai and forward Lin Liangming. Midfielder Wang Shangyuan was also ruled out. Star players Wu Lei and Zhu Chenjie were also absent from the squad. Ivankovic emphasized the need for an intelligent and well-prepared team, stating they had conducted targeted training sessions against the Australians.

To address defensive gaps, the national team recalled center back Wu Shaocong and midfielder Huang Zhengyu. Additionally, five young players who trained in Dubai were included, with under-20 player Wang Yudong's technical skills expected to provide a strategic advantage. Ivankovic praised the young players' proactivity and potential.

Failure to secure points could necessitate wins in the remaining two rounds against Indonesia and Bahrain, along with favorable results elsewhere. The team would have the support of over 67,000 fans. Newly naturalized midfielder Serginho, who became a Chinese citizen in early March, was expected to strengthen the midfield. Ivankovic mentioned that Serginho's planned lineup couldn't be implemented in the previous game due to an "unexpected player situation."

Defender Li Lei acknowledged Australia's strengths, particularly their physical prowess and transitions. He dismissed jet lag as an excuse, expressing confidence in his teammates and the fans' support.

Japan had already qualified for the World Cup finals. Australia and Saudi Arabia occupied the second and third places, while Indonesia and Bahrain also had six points. China needed at least seven points from their final three games to stay in contention. The Chinese team had previously lost to Australia in October 2024.