World Cup qualifiers serve as a critical juncture for national teams vying for a place in the prestigious tournament. In the upcoming match between Australia and China, both teams are seeking their first wins in the third round of Asian qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. Australia currently finds itself in fifth place in Group C following a disappointing start, while China occupies the last position after suffering defeats in its initial matches . The stakes are high, as only the top two teams from each group will secure automatic qualification.
Tony Popovic, in his first game as head coach, will look to kick-start Australia's campaign against China PR before travelling to face Japan in Saitama five days later. Following a frustrating September window, which saw a 1-0 home loss to Bahrain and a goalless draw in Indonesia, the Socceroos are eager to get back on track.
Come Thursday at Adelaide Oval, Australia will be on the hunt for those all-important three points and will see this match as a prime opportunity, given China PR’s difficult start to the qualifiers.
China have endured a dismal run so far in their 2026 World Cup qualifying matches and no player has shown any sign of leading the team to a win. They are bottom of the table with zero points and the players must take the onus on them when they face Australia. Fernandinho who was excellent against Saudi Arabia will hope to display his traits and lead China’s attacking line.
Injury and team news
Australia are set to be without a number of players against China due to injury. Connor Metcalfe has been ruled out of the game with a groin injury, while Kusini Yengi with muscle injury and Martin Boyle with a broken hand.
Predicted lineup
Australia: 4-4-2
Ryan (GK), Burgess, Souttar, Behich, Cirati; Silvera, Irvine, Baccus, Goodwin; Duke, Irankunda
China: 4-4-2
Wang (GK), G. Zhunyi, Guangtai, Browning, Zhu; Lei, Yuanyi, Xie, Abduweli; Fernandinho, Lei
How to watch anywhere with VPN
If you are abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out GOAL's guide to the best VPNs for streaming sports.
For fans eager to watch this pivotal encounter live, various streaming options are available. Platforms such as popular sports streaming services and television channels will broadcast the match . With both teams desperate for points, this clash promises to be an exciting display of competitive soccer on an international stage.
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