RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, March 20 (Xinhua) -- China suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Saudi Arabia in a FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifying match on Thursday, leaving it struggling at the bottom of Group C in the Asian zone.
The decisive moment came five minutes into the second half when Saudi midfielder Salem Al Dawsari found the net from close range, capitalizing on a rebound after Chinese goalkeeper Wang Dalei had made a valiant effort to block an initial shot.
China's task became even more challenging just before halftime when Lin Liangming was shown a red card for a reckless kick to the face of Saudi defender Hassan Kadish. The incident resulted in a lengthy stoppage as Kadish received treatment before being carried off the field on a stretcher.
Despite dominating possession, the hosts were unable to convert their chances, with a first-half goal by Faisal Al Ghamdi ruled out by VAR for handball, further compounding their frustrations.
After seven matches, China remains at the bottom of Group C with just six points. It will next take on Australia at home on Tuesday and will look to turn fortunes around.
