In the World Cup qualifiers, China's national football team faced Japan once again, resulting in a 1:3 defeat. However, there were several aspects worth reflecting upon during this match.
For the Chinese team, this game was not just an ordinary competition but an opportunity for profound introspection. Prior to the match, the Chinese team's situation was already grim, especially after suffering a 0:7 loss to Japan in the first round. Expectations and concerns intertwined among fans regarding this rematch.
Despite failing to reverse the outcome, the Chinese team did show significant progress in this match, particularly in their offensive performance, which provided a glimmer of hope.
The match began with the Chinese team not disappointing, especially when compared to the first round, as they noticeably increased their offensive tempo. In the first half, although Japan maintained the initiative, the Chinese team made several breakthroughs in attack, significantly increasing their number of shots on goal, including three accurate attempts, which contrasted starkly with their previous defeat.
While Japan still held an advantage in terms of technique and experience, the Chinese team's defensive tenacity was evident. For the first 39 minutes, China hardly gave Japan many opportunities, firmly controlling their defense until Japan scored through a corner kick in the 39th minute, breaking the deadlock. This goal stemmed from China's oversight in man-marking, creating a defensive gap.
In the second half, despite adjustments to the defense, Japan's attacks remained relentless. As the match progressed, Japan further extended their lead. Although China only managed to score one goal, it demonstrated a different level of offensive prowess compared to the previous match.
The match concluded with a 1:3 defeat, yet China's performance showed marked improvement from their last encounter. Overall, the team's state had improved since their previous match, especially in the offensive end, where efficiency was low but had significantly progressed from being unable to create openings previously.
The group situation remained delicate, with Saudi Arabia emerging as the dark horse. Despite China's progress in this match, the group's situation remained complex, especially due to Saudi Arabia's performance, which dramatically altered the group's landscape. On the same day, Indonesia surprisingly defeated Saudi Arabia 2:0, providing China with a greater chance of qualifying. Saudi Arabia, originally one of China's strongest opponents, now faced a dramatic change in ranking, making the upcoming matches more complicated and creating new possibilities for China to secure a qualification spot.
Netizens commented: "Saudi Arabia really sneezed hard, falling down with both man and ball." Seeing them lose to Indonesia was both unexpected and delightful. The group competition has become more exciting; while China still needs to win subsequent matches, at least they are no longer under such one-sided pressure.
From the overall group situation, Saudi Arabia's loss brought benefits to China, but they could not afford to be complacent. China would face strong teams like Australia and Saudi Arabia in the following matches, the results of which would directly determine whether China could stay within the top four.
Although China currently ranks fifth in the group, the goal difference disadvantage is not fatal. If they can secure points in the next few matches, there is still a chance to challenge for a higher position.
The outlook remains challenging, with key matches still ahead. Despite the complex qualification situation, China still holds some control over their fate. The upcoming matches are crucial, especially against Indonesia and Bahrain.
If these two relatively weaker teams can be defeated, it is highly likely that China will secure a top-four position in the group. Netizens believe that although the current situation is not ideal, they still have control over the situation. Winning the next few matches against Indonesia and Bahrain is probable, securing a top-four position.
However, facing Australia and Saudi Arabia, whether they can withstand the pressure and perform well is most important. Winning against these relatively weaker teams is not guaranteed. In the past, China often underperformed due to mental issues when facing slightly weaker opponents. How to remain calm and maximize their potential is key to China's successful qualification.
During the matches, both defensive stability and offensive efficiency need to be further enhanced. If China can maintain victories in the remaining four rounds, securing at least 12 points should lock in a top-four position. Facing strong teams like Australia and Saudi Arabia may present significant challenges, but if points can be secured, China's chances of qualification will greatly increase.
Reflections on the match against Japan: Urgent improvements needed in marking and defensive loopholes. Although China did not win this match against Japan, it exposed several issues, particularly in defense, where significant improvements are needed in marking and defensive details. Especially the oversight in corner kick defense allowed Japan crucial scoring opportunities. Offensive efficiency also requires enhancement, as numerous shooting opportunities in the first half failed to result in effective scores.
Netizens commented: "After watching this match, I feel that defense is the biggest issue. The corner kick defense loophole is too obvious, giving Japan too many opportunities. Offensive efficiency also needs to improve; although there were many chances, they always fell short."
These problems cannot be resolved in a single match, but it is clear that China is gradually regaining its rhythm. In the upcoming matches, the coaching staff must focus on details, strengthen players' awareness of marking defense, and enhance the speed of offensive transitions to achieve a true comeback.
Looking to the future: Steady progress to secure qualification. Despite not winning against Japan, this match brought hope to fans, as China displayed more offensive threats and defensive resilience compared to the first-round defeat. The group situation remains severe, but Saudi Arabia's loss provides new opportunities for China to qualify.
Upcoming matches will be decisive moments for China, whether against opponents like Indonesia and Bahrain or strong confrontations with Australia and Saudi Arabia. Every match must be won. Fans hope that China will steadily progress in the upcoming matches, give their all, strive for qualification, and achieve what they deserve.
Netizens summarized: "Although the situation is complex, as long as China grasps the key matches, there is still a great chance to secure qualification. The key now is to remain calm, play well in every match, and stabilize their position."