JN SPORTS - Ivankovic accepts responsibility for China's elimination from World Cup qualifiers

Branko Ivankovic, head coach of China, is seen prior to the 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifiers Group C match between China and Indonesia in Jakarta, Indonesia, June 5, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

JAKARTA - China's hopes of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup were dashed here Thursday night following a 1-0 defeat to Indonesia, prompting head coach Branko Ivankovic to take "significant" responsibility for the team's failure.

The loss, played under challenging conditions in Jakarta, ends China's campaign in the Asian qualifiers and extends its two-decade-long struggle to return to the World Cup.

"This team has been fighting for this goal for over 20 years," Ivankovic said at a post-match press conference. "We believed that if we could reach the next stage from this tough group, we would have a strong chance of qualifying. But we didn't succeed, and as head coach, I definitely bear significant responsibility."

China won only two out of nine matches in Group C, which includes Japan, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Indonesia, sitting at rock bottom with only six points.

Ivankovic, who took over the national team just over a year ago, emphasized the progress made during his tenure, particularly the focus on youth development.

"We've brought in a younger generation of players who have injected energy into the team," he said. "Based on their performances, I believe this team has a promising future."

Ivankovic credited Indonesia for their strong performance, noting their improved squad since the last meeting between the two teams in October 2024, when China secured a 2-1 victory in Qingdao.

"Indonesia has added new talent, including both naturalized and local players," he said. "They're young, strong, and showed great quality today."

Acknowledging the difficult playing conditions, Ivankovic praised his squad's effort. "We knew this match would be tough - not just because of the opponent, but also the weather. I want to thank my players for fighting until the very last second."

When asked about Indonesia's prospects in the next round, Ivankovic responded diplomatically: "In football, nothing is guaranteed. I just wish them the best moving forward."

China last qualified for the FIFA World Cup in 2002 and has failed to reach the finals ever since.