Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the 2026 World Cup Qualification match.
Despite being bottom of the group, China still have a mathematical chance of qualifying for the World Cup finals. Australia, having moved into second place, are competing for automatic qualification. They have a strong record against China, winning three of the previous four meetings, and will be determined to secure a victory against the underdogs.
China
China are having a disastrous 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. They suffered a narrow 0:1 defeat to Saudi Arabia in their last outing, further hampered by a first-half sending-off. Their overall goal difference (-11) reflects their struggles. The defence is unable to withstand pressure even from weaker teams. The Chinese have conceded in six of their seven group games, including seven unanswered goals against Japan.
Australia
Australia, meanwhile, are beginning to find their rhythm after a shaky start to qualifying. They hammered Indonesia (5:1) in their previous outing and now sit second in the group. The Aussies average 1.57 goals per game and they kept China quiet in the reverse fixture (3:0). Defensively, Australia have looked solid with just six goals conceded, and the 2:2 draw against Bahrain remains their only real slip-up at the back.
China vs Australia Prediction
China are outclassed and haven’t defeated a strong opponent in a long time. The hosts are at the bottom of the qualifying group and have lost five of their seven matches. Australia, fresh off a dominant win against Indonesia after a spell of underwhelming performances, travel to Beijing in high spirits. They should get the job done without leaving it to the final matchday against Saudi Arabia.
