China ended their three-match losing streak by securing a 2-1 victory over Indonesia in their 2026 FIFA World Cup AFC qualifiers third round Group C match at Qingdao Youth Football Stadium. The win revived China’s campaign, while it marked Indonesia’s first defeat after a series of impressive draws against stronger teams.
Despite being on the defensive in the opening stages, China took control midway through the first half. Indonesia initially looked more dangerous, with a seventh-minute header from Jay Idzes being comfortably saved by China goalkeeper Wang Dalei. Ragnar Oratmangoen also had a chance from distance but failed to convert.
China broke the deadlock in the 21st minute when Behram Abduweli volleyed home from a Jiang Shenglong set-piece. Indonesia responded with efforts from Ivar Jenner and Calvin Verdonk, but China doubled their lead just before halftime. Zhang Yuning latched onto a precise pass from Gao Zhunyi, finishing with a composed strike into the bottom right corner.
In the second half, Indonesia showed urgency, creating several opportunities, including a near miss from Rizky Ridho. With a much more improved performance compared to a sub-par first half, Indonesia finally pulled a goal back in the 86th minute through substitute Thom Haye, but China held on for their first win of the qualifiers.