Australia strengthened their FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying hopes with a 2-0 victory over China in Hangzhou. Jackson Irvine opened the scoring in the 16th minute, capitalizing on defensive errors, while a goalkeeping blunder by Wang Dalei gifted Australia a second goal. Despite China’s late pressure, the Socceroos held firm, moving to 13 points in Group C—three ahead of Saudi Arabia.
Meanwhile, Indonesia secured a vital 1-0 win over Bahrain, with Dutch-born forward Ole Romeny scoring the decisive goal. The victory keeps Indonesia in fourth place with nine points, while Bahrain remains tied with China at six points. Both matches set up a tense finish in Group C, with Australia facing Japan and Saudi Arabia next, while China and Indonesia battle for survival.
Australia Edges Closer to World Cup 2026, Indonesia Keeps Hopes Alive with Crucial Win
