In front of an electric Jakartan crowd, the Chinese mainland national team fell 1-0 to Indonesia in a make-or-break AFC Group C qualifier, extinguishing its hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The decisive moment came in first-half stoppage time. Right-back Yang Zexiang was adjudged to have fouled Indonesia's midfielder Ricky Kambuaya in the box, setting up Oxford United forward Ole Romeny for a clinical spot-kick that beat goalkeeper Wang Dalei in the 45th minute.
Despite bright efforts from 18-year-old Wang Yudong, who twice tested Indonesia's keeper, and nerves fraying after defender Han Pengfei suffered a first-half injury, the Chinese mainland side could not force an equalizer.
With just one match left on the schedule, the Chinese mainland sit bottom of Group C, managing six points from nine games. Indonesia's win propels them to third with 12 points. Only the top two sides of each six-team group earn direct qualification; third and fourth enter another playoff phase.
Japan and Iran have already sealed their spots from Asia, leaving little margin for error as the final global lineup for the United States, Canada and Mexico tournament takes shape.
Head coach Branko Ivankovic, who took charge a year ago, vowed to shoulder full responsibility. 'This team has been fighting for this goal for over 20 years,' he reflected. 'We believed we could make it through this tough group, but we didn't. As head coach, I bear significant responsibility.'
Still, Ivankovic highlighted his squad's youth movement: 'We've injected fresh energy with a younger generation. Based on their performances, this team has a bright future. Indonesia brought new talent too, with both naturalized and local players – young, strong, and they showed great quality today.'
Reference(s):
China fail to qualify for 2026 FIFA World Cup after loss to Indonesia
cgtn.com
