Chinese Football Fans Demand Dissolution of National Team After Shock Loss to Indonesia in World Cup Qualifiers

After China suffered a 0-1 loss to Indonesia in the 2026 World Cup qualifying matches, numerous Chinese supporters turned to social media platforms to voice their anger, ridicule the national team, and demand its dissolution.

China's Serginho (No. 8) was seen in action against Indonesia's Ricky Kambuaya during the World Cup qualifier held on June 5, 2025. The photograph was taken by Reuters.

Indonesia managed a close 1-0 victory against China during the third round of the Asian qualifiers held at home on Thursday. As a result, China remains at the bottom of the group with only six points and has been eliminated from securing a place in next year’s World Cup.

The performance triggered a surge of criticism aimed at coach Branko Ivankovic and his team.

A user suggested, 'Start by dissolving the Chinese Football Association, followed by the national football team,' Sina .

Another commenter stated: "The Chinese national team performed admirably. I am in favor of dissolving the team."

Other fans voiced their exasperation more intensely: "The Chinese team genuinely has nobody else to field. Dissolve the team, cease embarrassing yourselves," a spectator commented.

A fan from Hong Kong commented: "Not only did they lose the game, but they also let down their supporters and tarnished the nation's image."

One user sarcastically asked: "Could somebody explain to me why anybody would be foolish enough to continue watching this team compete?"

Indonesia’s sole goal was scored in the 45th minute as a penalty converted by forward Ole Romeny. They put up a strong fight during the second half to maintain their lead and ultimately won the match. Although this outcome doesn’t secure them an automatic spot for qualification, with Japan (having 20 points) and Australia (with 16 points) having clinched the first and second positions respectively, it still leaves hope intact for Indonesia. With 12 points, along with Saudi Arabia at 13 points, both teams advanced to the fourth stage of qualifiers.

The third and fourth-placed teams from each group will enter the fourth round of Asian qualifiers, set to take place in West Asia from Oct. 8 to 14. The six teams will be divided into two groups for round-robin matches. The two winners will qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup. The two runners-up will face off in a two-legged play-off on Nov. 13 and 18. The winner of that tie will advance to the intercontinental play-off, competing against representatives from North and Central America, Africa, South America and Oceania for one of the final two World Cup spots.