Wei Shihao Omitted from China's World Cup Qualifiers Post Suspension

Chinese left winger Wei Shihao has been excluded from China's squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Japan and Saudi Arabia due to a four-match ban incurred in the Chinese Super League. Wei's suspension stems from a foul committed last month. Other notable squad members include three naturalised players.

Chinese football star Wei Shihao has been excluded from the national squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Japan and Saudi Arabia.

The decision follows a four-match suspension imposed on Wei for a foul during a Chinese Super League game last month. Wei's notable absence stands out in coach Branko Ivankovic's 27-man squad, which features three naturalised players: Tyias Browning, Alan, and Fernandinho.

China aims to secure one of the top spots in Group C to advance to the 2026 World Cup, facing formidable opposition from Japan, Saudi Arabia, and other regional powerhouses in the qualifying rounds.

(With inputs from agencies.)