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
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.
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.”
