China continues to struggle in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, losing 1-0 to Saudi Arabia, leaving Team Dragon at the bottom of Group C with just three rounds remaining.
In a match held in Riyadh on March 20, 2025, the Chinese national team faced a challenging second half after a narrow defeat, further complicating its journey through the qualifiers. The decisive moment unfolded just five minutes after the break when Saudi midfielder Salem Al Dawsari netted a goal from close range, capitalizing on a rebound after Chinese goalkeeper Wang Dalei had made an impressive save against the initial shot.
As frustrations mounted for Team Dragon, the situation took a turn for the worse just before halftime. Lin Liangming received a red card for a reckless kick to the face of Saudi defender Hassan Kadish. The incident led to a significant stoppage in play as medical staff tended to Kadish, who had to be carried off the field on a stretcher.
Despite a firm possession advantage, China could not effectively convert their chances. A first-half goal from Faisal Al Ghamdi was disallowed by VAR for handball, further compounding the team's struggles on the pitch. After seven matches, China sits at the bottom of Group C with a mere six points.
The Chinese squad now faces an urgent challenge as they prepare to host Australia on March 25, 2025. The looming match serves as a critical opportunity for the team to turn their fortunes around and improve their position in the qualifying stages.
This severely disappointing result against Saudi Arabia highlights the ongoing hurdles faced by China in their quest for a spot in the upcoming World Cup. As the qualifiers progress, every match becomes increasingly significant, and the test against Australia will be essential for Team Dragon's ambitions.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely, hoping for a turnaround in performance as China battles not just for a victory, but for hope in the qualifying journey.
