Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the 2026 World Cup qualifying match.
This match holds significance not only for points and improving positions within the group; both teams have a chance at the seemingly out-of-reach top spot. Moreover, it's a clash between two Croatian coaches—Dragan Talajić for Bahrain and Branko Ivanković for China. Whose system will prevail?
Bahrain
Bahrain, the island nation in the Persian Gulf, have managed to take points from two of the three group favourites. They secured a win away against Australia by defending robustly throughout the match and later drew (0:0) against Saudi Arabia in Jeddah. Bahrain deserve praise for these results. However, their heavy home defeat to Japan (0:5) highlights the team's level, along with the dropped points in a draw with Indonesia (2:2), where Bahrain salvaged a point in the 99th minute.
China
China once aspired to qualify for the World Cup and even participated in 2002, but now reaching the third round of qualification is considered an achievement. They would have been without any points if not for their win over Indonesia (2:1) in the last round. Nonetheless, their current level is reflected in the humiliating loss to Japan (0:7). Prior to that, China barely advanced from the second stage, only surpassing Thailand based on head-to-head results.
Bahrain vs China Prediction
The teams have not met in World Cup qualifications before, and none of their three encounters in the 21st century have ended with a winner. Betting specifically on a draw is risky. It's evident that China have conceded the most goals—13 in 4 matches. Therefore, the hosts are expected to score and not lose.
