China's Crushing Defeat: Ivankovic Reflects on Toughest Night

China's coach Branko Ivankovic describes a 7-0 World Cup qualifying loss to Japan as the toughest night of his career. Despite pre-match defensive focus, China suffered their worst qualifying defeat. The loss sparked outrage among fans and highlighted ongoing issues in Chinese soccer governance.

In an overwhelming defeat, China coach Branko Ivankovic called the 7-0 loss to Japan the toughest night of his career after the crushing World Cup qualifier in Saitama.

This defeat marks China's worst performance in World Cup qualifying, falling just short of their 8-0 loss to Brazil in 2012. Ivankovic, who previously led Oman to a win over Japan, admits that defensive lapses during the game enabled Japan's dominance.

Chinese soccer fans and former players, such as ex-captain Fan Zhiyi, voiced strong reactions on social media, emphasizing the ease with which Japan scored. Ivankovic now faces the challenge of rebuilding his team's confidence ahead of their next match against Saudi Arabia. The loss has refueled concerns over corruption in China's soccer governance, with several senior officials being jailed for bribery.

(With inputs from agencies.)