Australia Faces China in Pivotal World Cup Qualifier Tonight

HANGZHOU, China — Australia is set to face China in a crucial AFC World Cup qualifier at the Hangzhou Sports Park Stadium on March 25, 2025, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. local time (10 p.m. AEDT).

This match has significant implications as Australia currently occupies the second automatic qualifying spot for the 2026 World Cup, while China sits at the bottom of Group C. With Japan having already secured their place in the World Cup, every point is vital for the Socceroos to maintain their position, especially following a recent string of mixed results.

The Socceroos’ last outing was a disappointing draw against Saudi Arabia, which left them under pressure to secure a victory. Coach Tony Popovic‘s squad includes key players such as goalkeeper Mat Ryan and forward Brandon Borrello. They will need to make the most of their attacking opportunities, as Australia has struggled to score as consistently as in previous campaigns.

“We have to focus on getting a result tonight,” Popovic said during the pre-match conference. “Every game is a finals match for us now. We know the quality China possesses, and we respect that.”

For China, the match is equally critical. The team, managed by Branko Ivankovic, has only managed to secure two wins from their seven qualifying matches, putting them in a challenging position. Despite their low standing, China hopes to capitalize on home-field advantage.

China will be without their second-highest goalscorer, Wu Lei, due to injury, and Lin Liangming is suspended after receiving a red card in their last match. In contrast, Australia’s Craig Goodwin could return to the starting lineup if Martin Boyle, who sustained a knock, is not fit to play.

The historical context adds an extra layer of intensity to this clash. Australia has faced China 15 times, winning eight matches and losing four, with three draws. However, the last encounter between the two teams saw Australia triumph 3-1 in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on October 10, 2024.

The match will be broadcast live on platforms including Fubo, Fanatiz, and beIN SPORTS in the United States, and fans abroad can access the game using a VPN if necessary. With both teams desperate for points, the stage is set for an exhilarating encounter in Hangzhou, where every moment may define their World Cup aspirations.