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9mo ago

China's World Cup Hopes Dented by Heavy Loss to Japan

A 7-0 defeat in the opening match of the 2026 qualifiers raises questions about China's football ambitions.

Yang Zexiang #15 of Team China and Kaoru Mitoma #7 of Team Japan compete for the ball during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier third round Group C match between China and Japan at Saitama Stadium on September 5, 2024 in Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
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Takefusa Kubo of Japan drives the ball during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier match between China and Japan on September 5, 2024 in Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
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Overview

  • China's national team suffered a 7-0 defeat to Japan in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian qualifiers opener.
  • The loss is China's worst in World Cup qualifying history, overshadowing previous defeats.
  • Fans and media in China criticized the team's performance and the coach's tactics.
  • President Xi Jinping's aspirations for Chinese football face renewed scrutiny after the loss.
  • China still has nine more qualifying matches to improve their standing in the group.