At 22:00 Beijing time on November 14, in the 5th round of the 2023 AFC Asian Qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup, Group C, China won 1-0 away against Bahrain. After the match, media commentator Mickey Rabbit – Liu Shisi discussed China’s qualification prospects, stating that the team has a chance.
The media commentator wrote on his social media: “The Chinese national team still has five World Cup qualifiers ahead. The next two matches against Japan and Saudi Arabia will be tough, and they might even suffer consecutive losses. However, if they perform well in the final three games, the Chinese national team has a chance to play in the playoff, or even dream of qualifying for the World Cup finals.”
He added: “Under Ivan, the Chinese national team has clarified a small diamond 4-4-2 formation centered around Zhang Yuning. In this dual-striker tactical system, combined with deep-lying forwards and high pressing, by suppressing the opposing defenders, the ball can be quickly returned to the core area, providing the best and most direct scoring opportunities. Additionally, in set-piece attacks, the Chinese national team has its own advantages and characteristics, aiming to bring more surprises in the remaining five World Cup qualifiers. Apart from Japan, the other teams in the group are not in great form, giving the Chinese national team a certain opportunity. Given that we are in an upward phase and have a clear playing style, this is extremely advantageous in the World Cup qualifiers.”
Currently, after two consecutive wins, the Chinese national team has accumulated 6 points and temporarily ranks 4th in the group due to a goal difference disadvantage.
