China's football team is gearing up for a make-or-break match against Saudi Arabia in Dalian on Tuesday, following a crushing 7-0 defeat by Japan last week. Coach Branko Ivankovic insists his squad is 'physically and mentally recovered' and ready to fight for redemption. 🛡️
🎯 Coach’s Game Plan
Ivankovic praised Saudi Arabia's World Cup pedigree, calling Roberto Mancini’s squad a 'team of champions.' He stressed defense as the key to countering Saudi Arabia’s attack, which famously stunned Argentina in 2022. 🗣️'We need to bottom out and restore our form fast,' he said at Monday’s press conference.
🌏 Group C Heat
Both teams are under pressure: Saudi Arabia drew 1-1 with Indonesia, while China seeks its first win in the qualifiers. Meanwhile, Japan and Bahrain lead the group, with Bahrain pulling off a shock 1-0 win over Australia. Tuesday’s matches could shake up the rankings! 🔥
⚡ Did You Know?
China’s last victory over Saudi Arabia was in 2015—can they rewrite history? Tune in tomorrow! ⏳
