Coach Ivankovic Keeps China's World Cup Hopes Alive

Coach Branko Ivankovic remains optimistic about China's World Cup aspirations despite recent defeats to Saudi Arabia and Australia, leaving China at the bottom of Group C. The expanded World Cup format offers China a renewed chance, and upcoming matches against Indonesia and Bahrain are crucial to their qualifying mission.

Despite consecutive defeats to Saudi Arabia and Australia in World Cup qualifiers, Coach Branko Ivankovic maintains that China's ambitions remain intact. Currently, at the bottom of Group C, China still sees hope due to the World Cup's expansion to 48 teams in 2026.

China's March setbacks—a narrow loss to the Saudis and a 2-0 defeat by Australia—dashed immediate qualification hopes, but third or fourth place could still secure a chance through another qualifying phase. Ivankovic has his eyes set on crucial June matches against Indonesia and Bahrain.

Ivankovic debuted naturalized Brazilian midfielder Serginho, although the team struggled to score. With key players returning, including forward Lin Liangming, the Chinese squad is bolstered for their upcoming challenges as they aim to keep their World Cup dream alive.

(With inputs from agencies.)