China's football ambitions face unprecedented challenges, as heavy defeats and a corruption scandal tarnish the sport's image.
China’s Football Ambitions Crumble Amidst Defeats and Scandals
China’s Football Ambitions Crumble Amidst Defeats and Scandals
As China grapples with a failing football program, the hope of becoming a football superpower is fading fast.
China's football aspirations are in disarray following significant defeats and corruption scandals. The men's national team sits dismally in 90th on the FIFA rankings, culminating in a record 7-0 loss to Japan during World Cup qualifiers. The aftermath of this loss revealed an alarming culture of match-fixing and bribery, leading to widespread arrests of players and officials involved. Despite President Xi Jinping’s ambitious goals of elevating Chinese football to a global stage, the reality reflects a top-down governance model that hampers grassroots development and true sporting culture. Even with a passionate following, the systemic failures continue to plague the sport, casting shadows on a once-celebrated dream.
