As the 2026 FIFA World Cup AFC qualifier approaches, China's defender Jiang Guangtai has voiced strong confidence in his team's ability to triumph over Australia. The crucial match is set to take place at the Adelaide Oval in Adelaide, Australia, this Thursday.
Jiang, who recently recovered from an injury sustained during Shanghai Port's 3-0 defeat to Pohang Steelers in the AFC Champions League Elite, affirmed his readiness to play. \"I've had time to recover after the match. Physically, I feel fine now,\" Jiang stated on Monday, dispelling doubts about his participation.
China is currently battling in Group C alongside Australia, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Indonesia. After two tough losses—a 7-0 drubbing by Japan and a 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia—China finds itself at the bottom of the group. The top two teams will secure automatic qualification for the World Cup, while the third and fourth-placed teams will enter the subsequent rounds.
Australia, on the other hand, sits in fifth place with a single loss to Bahrain and a goalless draw against Indonesia. Despite the challenges, Jiang remains optimistic. \"It was a long journey, but we have a day to recover. We all have a clear goal, and we must focus on the game,\" he emphasized. \"We have a job to do. We need to win.\"
China's focus is now firmly set on turning their campaign around and securing a spot in the prestigious World Cup tournament. With Jiang back in the lineup, the team hopes to harness his leadership and defensive prowess to achieve their objectives.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
