World Cup

Following another World Cup qualification failure, China’s national football team saw its 14th coaching change in 23 years, with Ivan departing after 14 matches. Public criticism intensified after the loss to Indonesia, even leading to online suggestions for a local amateur team to represent the nation, which drew sharp criticism from football legend Fan Zhiyi. The instability surrounding the head coach position and suggestions of an amateur team highlight the nation’s struggles in the sport.

China’s national football team has fallen behind Thailand in the FIFA rankings for the first time, dropping to 99th globally and 15th in Asia after a loss to Indonesia. This unprecedented fall, following a 1-0 defeat, saw China lose 15.05 points. Thailand, on the other hand, is now ranked 98th. The decline threatens China’s chances in the 2027 Asian Cup, making group stage qualification significantly harder.

China’s World Cup hopes were dashed after a loss to Indonesia. This defeat triggered widespread disappointment and analysis. Former captain Fan Zhiyi cited the team’s shortcomings. Social media reflected disillusionment, with calls for realism and long-term development. The public’s reaction suggests a potential shift towards acknowledging the team’s limitations and focus on reform.

China’s national football team was eliminated from contention for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 1-0 away loss to Indonesia. This defeat, part of a disappointing qualifying campaign marked by multiple losses and a slide into FIFA ranking’s lowest position in nine years, has ended China’s World Cup aspirations. The loss, their first to Indonesia in a competitive match in 68 years, has sparked widespread criticism and fan outrage.