How to Watch: China PR vs Australia
With Japan securing their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026™, the battle for the second automatic qualification spot in Group C intensifies. While Japan leads the group, Australia remains in contention, sitting just one point ahead of third-placed Saudi Arabia. A victory against China would strengthen the Socceroos’ position heading into the final two qualifiers in June.
The top two teams from each group in the Third Round Asian Qualifiers will earn direct entry to the World Cup, while third and fourth-placed teams will advance to the Fourth Round.
Squad Updates
Following their 5-1 triumph over Indonesia, Australia’s squad has seen some adjustments:
- Adam Taggart (Perth Glory FC) was substituted at halftime and will miss the trip to China.
- Kusini Yengi (Portsmouth FC) has withdrawn due to an injury sustained in training.
In response, experienced striker Mitchell Duke (FC Machida Zelvia) has been called up. With 45 caps and 12 goals for Australia, Duke brings valuable international experience despite limited club minutes.
The match could also see debuts for four outfield players:
- Nectarios Triantis, Kai Trewin, Alex Grant, and Ryan Teague
Goalkeepers Tom Glover and Paul Izzo may also earn their first caps if selected.
The Opponent: China PR
China has proven to be a resilient side in the qualifiers, securing wins against Indonesia and Bahrain. However, they enter this fixture on the back of two consecutive defeats, including a 1-0 loss to Saudi Arabia where they were reduced to 10 men after Lin Liangmin’s red card (he will be suspended against Australia).
Under Croatian coach Branko Ivankovic, who took charge in February 2024, China is expected to adopt a defensive approach, looking to counterattack.
Last Meeting: A Thrilling Comeback
When these sides last met in October 2024, China struck first through Xie Wenneng, but the Socceroos rallied with goals from:
- Lewis Miller (first international goal)
- Craig Goodwin (Adelaide’s hometown hero)
- Nishan Velupillay (sealing the win in stoppage time)
The 3-1 victory marked a perfect start for head coach Tony Popovic and showcased Australia’s attacking resilience.
Key Stats & Insights (China PR vs Australia)
- FIFA Rankings: Australia (26th) vs China (90th)
- Head-to-Head (A Internationals): 12 matches – 6 wins (AUS), 2 draws, 4 losses
- Australia is unbeaten in their last four meetings (W3 D1).
- Tony Popovic remains undefeated as Socceroos coach (W2 D3).
- China has lost six of their last eight matches, including their last two.
- Craig Goodwin has been involved in 9 goals in his last 9 internationals (5 goals, 4 assists).
- Jackson Irvine has the best conversion rate (75%) among Socceroos since 2024.
Form Guide:
- Australia: W-D-D-D-W
- China: L-L-W-W-L
What They Said about China PR vs Australia
Tony Popovic (Australia Head Coach):
“They’re dangerous on the break. We must be prepared whether they press or sit deep. Our build-up play must be sharper.”
Martin Boyle:
“It’ll be tricky, but we’ll analyze their strengths and weaknesses and aim for another strong result.”
Nishan Velupillay:
“Every Asian qualifier is tough, but we’ll be ready.”
Australia will look to take a major step toward World Cup qualification with a crucial away victory – and if recent form is anything to go by, the Socceroos are ready to deliver.
Coming off a dominant 5-1 win over Indonesia, confidence is high in Tony Popovic’s squad. With key players like Craig Goodwin and Jackson Irvine in strong form, and experienced campaigner Mitchell Duke back in the mix, Australia has the firepower to break down China’s defense.
China, missing suspended defender Lin Liangmin and struggling for consistency, will likely sit deep and look to counter. But the Socceroos have shown they can handle such tactics, as seen in their 3-1 comeback win in October.
If Australia secures three points in Hangzhou, they’ll take a giant leap toward securing that automatic World Cup spot. The stage is set – now it’s time to finish the job.
Prediction: China 0-2 Australia
(Goodwin & Duke to score)
Match Details
📅 Date: Tuesday, 25 March 2025
🏟️ Venue: Hangzhou Olympic Sports Centre Stadium
⏰ Kick-off: 7:00 PM local / 10:00 PM AEDT
📺 Broadcast: Paramount+
Will the Socceroos get the job done? 🇦🇺⚽ #AUSvCHN #WCQ2026
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