China’s coach remains optimistic ahead of crucial match against Indonesia

According to Bolasport.com, China national team coach Branko Ivankovic maintains optimism about his team’s chances to qualify for the 2026 World Cup — despite their current position at the bottom of Group C.

The Red Dragons have only collected 6 points from 8 matches in the third round of Asian qualifiers. They trail far behind Saudi Arabia with 10 points, Indonesia with 9 points, and Bahrain who leads on goal difference with 6 points.

China’s chances for automatic World Cup 2026 qualification are now impossible — but they can still advance to the fourth round by finishing in 3rd or 4th position.

“These two remaining matches are do-or-die games that will determine our team’s chances,” said Ivankovic.

China faces two crucial matches in the near future — against Indonesia in Jakarta in early June and hosting Bahrain five days later.