Ivankovic eyes consolation win in China's World Cup qualifier

China national team head coach Branko Ivankovic said Monday that his team will fight for a win over Bahrain to thank Chinese fans, despite both teams being eliminated from World Cup contention following defeats in the last round.

"We're determined to win because, from the national team's perspective, every match matters and we aim to win," Ivankovic said. "We hope to bid farewell to the World Cup qualifiers with a victory and thank the fans for their backing and passion."

Head coach of China Branko Ivankovic (L) looks on during a training session in Chongqing, southwest China, June 9, 2025, one day ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifiers Group C match between China and Bahrain. (Xinhua/Chen Cheng)

In the previous round, China lost 1-0 to Indonesia, while Bahrain fell 2-0 at home to Saudi Arabia. Both teams had already been eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup and will meet Tuesday in their final qualifier.

China last qualified for the World Cup in 2002 and has failed to reach the finals since.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference, the 71-year-old Ivankovic acknowledged the team's early exit was disheartening. However, he said the team is now focused on Tuesday's match and is working to adjust both physically and mentally.

When asked about giving young players more opportunities, Ivankovic stressed the progress made since he took over.

"The team has become much more youthful," he said. "Players from different age groups like Xie Wenneng, Hu Hetao, Behram Abduweli, Liu Chengyu, and Wang Yudong have joined the team and established their positions. This indicates a promising future for Chinese football."

Goalkeeper Wang Dalei, who appeared alongside Ivankovic at the press conference, said this may be his final World Cup qualifier. He expressed hope of securing a win with his teammates to inspire younger players and set an example.

Ivankovic is expected to step down after the match but remained noncommittal about his future.

"We're currently fully focused on the match, and everyone is working hard to get ready. Whether this will be my last match or not will be decided after the game," he said. "As for my contract, it will be evaluated after the World Cup qualifiers, and I believe the Chinese Football Association will make a decision at that time."