Tue Nov 19 21:16:44 UTC 2024: ## China Revives World Cup Hopes with Last-Minute Win

**Manama, Bahrain –** A dramatic late goal has reignited China’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. Zhang’s 91st-minute strike secured a 1-0 victory over Bahrain, moving China to within striking distance of the top two in Group C.

The win leaves China level on points with Australia and Saudi Arabia, four points behind group leaders Japan. Australia currently holds second place due to a superior goal difference over Saudi Arabia, with China in fourth. Bahrain sits fifth with five points.

The crucial goal came moments after VAR overturned an offside call against Bahrain. The victory propels China to six points from five games, a significant boost to their World Cup ambitions after a 16-year absence from the tournament. Japan, meanwhile, faces Indonesia on Friday.

Elsewhere in Asian qualifiers, South Korea solidified their lead in Group B with a 3-1 win over Kuwait, featuring Son Heung-Min’s 50th international goal. In Group A, Iran held on for a thrilling 3-2 victory over North Korea despite a red card and a late comeback from their opponents. Qatar and the United Arab Emirates also secured wins, boosting their qualification hopes.

The top two teams in each of Asia’s three qualifying groups automatically qualify for the 2026 World Cup finals in North America. Third and fourth-placed teams will advance to a further qualifying round.

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