The Australian national team is getting closer to a ticket to the 2026 World Cup after defeating China 2-0 in a qualifying match held in Hangzhou, Tuesday (25/3). This victory brought the Socceroos to second place in Group C, three points ahead of Saudi Arabia who are in third place.
The Socceroos were dominant from the start of the match. Australia’s first goal came in the 16th minute through Jackson Irvine who appeared confident after scoring two goals against Indonesia last week. Taking advantage of a mistake in the Chinese defense, the FC St Pauli midfielder successfully curled a shot into the corner of the goal.
Australia’s lead increased in the 29th minute after a costly error from Chinese goalkeeper Wang Dalei. Nishan Velupillay unleashed a shot that looked easy to anticipate, but the ball slipped through Wang’s grasp and into the net. This was Velupillay’s third goal in five appearances for the Australian national team.
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Entering the second half, China tried to rise by bringing in a naturalized player from Brazil, Serginho (Sai ​​Erjiniao), who immediately gave a threat. His hard kick from outside the penalty box almost broke into the Australian goal, but was saved by goalkeeper Mathew Ryan.
The support of more than 70,000 home fans gave the Chinese team a boost, but they still struggled to break through a more solid Australian defense. The final whistle blew, the score remained 2-0 for the Socceroos.
With the win, Australia have 13 points from seven games and remain on course for automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup. The final two games will be crucial for Tony Popovic’s squad, who must host leaders Japan and travel to Saudi Arabia.
On the other hand, China who are stuck at the bottom of the standings with six points still have a chance to finish third or fourth to get a chance to advance to the play-off round. They will face Indonesia in the away match before hosting Bahrain in the final match.
