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Chinese fans get excuses in early on social media for pending World Cup loss to Saudi Arabia

After a 7-0 defeat to Japan, a hashtag saying Tuesday’s match could be played in the rain has been trending on Weibo, with fans on the defensive

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Chinese football fans fear the worst in their Fifa World Cup qualifying clash with Saudi Arabia, following their 7-0 humiliation against Japan. Photo: Xinhua

Chinese football fans are getting their excuses in early before their 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifier against Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, with blame being placed on the rain before the downpours even begin.

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A hashtag announcing that China’s Group C game against Saudi Arabia at the Dalian Suoyuwan Football Stadium could be played in the rain has been trending on Weibo, with football fans debating whether the shower would benefit the national side.

Despite China, ranked 87th in the world, having home advantage against the World Cup regulars Saudi Arabia, who are 30 places ahead on Fifa’s table, fans have convinced themselves the weather will determine the outcome.

“The national football team have lost this match because of the rain. Let’s think of the reason first,” one Weibo user said.

Another particularly pessimistic user commented: “I think even if the opposition [had only] a goalkeeper, the national team still would not score.”

China will be facing a Saudi Arabia side that two years ago defeated eventual world champions Argentina. Photo: AP
China will be facing a Saudi Arabia side that two years ago defeated eventual world champions Argentina. Photo: AP

In their first game in the third round of Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup – which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada – China suffered a humiliating 7-0 defeat to 18th-ranked Japan in Saitama on Thursday.

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