Australia Strengthens World Cup Bid with Key Victory Over China

The Socceroos' 2-0 win in Hangzhou solidifies their hold on second place in Group C, with automatic qualification within reach.

Australia defeated China 2-0 in Hangzhou, with goals from Jackson Irvine and Nishan Velupillay, to move closer to automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Socceroos now sit second in Group C with 13 points, three ahead of Saudi Arabia, and hold a significant goal difference advantage (+7 to Saudi Arabia's -2).
Tony Popovic remains unbeaten as Australia's coach, with six games without a loss since taking over in September 2024.
Japan has already secured top spot in Group C, while China has been eliminated from direct qualification and will aim for a playoff spot in their final matches.
The final June matches, including Australia hosting Japan and traveling to Saudi Arabia, will determine the second automatic qualifier and playoff participants.