China Falls Short Against Saudi Arabia In World Cup Qualifier

In a match marked by controversy and a critical mistake, the Chinese national football team fell short against Saudi Arabia in the seventh match of the 2026 North and Central America World Cup Asian 3rd preliminary round. Held on March 21, 2025, at the KSU Stadium in Riyadh, the match ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat for the Chinese team, leaving them struggling to climb out of the lowest position in their group.

During the game, China's midfielder Lin Liangming faced dire consequences for a reckless challenge against Saudi Arabian player Kadesh. In the first half of added time, as players scrambled for a loose ball, Lin executed what has been described as a 'murderous Kung Fu kick,' striking Kadesh directly in the face. This prompted the referee to issue a direct red card, forcing Lin to exit the game immediately, a decision that would change the match's dynamics significantly.

Following Lin's dismissal, China started the second half with a numerical disadvantage. Just five minutes after play resumed, Saudi Arabia capitalized on China’s weakened defense. Salleh Al-Dosari scored the decisive goal with a right-footed shot near the penalty area, leaving China unable to respond effectively.

Throughout the match, China struggled to create opportunities, managing only three shots, none of which were on target. Meanwhile, the Saudi team dominated offensively with 20 shots taken, reflecting their control over the game.

The defeat brought China's record to 2 wins and 5 losses in the qualifying round, stalling their ambitions of moving out of last place in Group C. With a total of six points and a troubling goal difference of minus 11, China faces almost insurmountable challenges in their pursuit of World Cup qualification.

This loss was particularly disappointing for the Chinese team, which had entered the qualifications hoping to improve upon previous performances. The match against Saudi Arabia was seen as an opportunity to secure critical points against a similarly positioned team in the standings.

Prior to the game, the Chinese players had been optimistic, training diligently in Riyadh just days before the match. However, hopes quickly faded as the reality of the quarter-final qualification process set in. The top two teams from each group advance directly to the World Cup, while the third and fourth-place teams will enter the playoff rounds. After this defeat, China's path to the World Cup seems increasingly narrow.

On the other hand, Saudi Arabia's victory positions them well in the group, moving them to nine points and closer to Australia, who holds the second position with ten points. This match has bolstered the Saudi team’s confidence as they aim to secure their place in the tournament.

China will need to regroup and reassess their strategy going forward. With only two matches remaining in the qualifying rounds, every point will be crucial in their efforts to escape the bottom of Group C. Their next challenge lies ahead, where they will seek redemption and a chance to turn their fortunes around.