Jakarta, CNN Indonesia —
Chinese coach Branko Ivankovic praised Indonesian National Team who put up fierce resistance and didn’t forget to also praise his team for trying hard 2026 World Cup Qualification.
Chinese national team coach Branko Ivankovic received a question regarding Shin Tae Yong’s opinion regarding the Indonesian national team being unlucky in the 2026 World Cup Qualification match in Qingdao, Tuesday (15/10).
In the press conference session, Ivankovic was asked to respond to Shin Tae Yong’s statement which said that the Indonesian national team was unlucky in the match against China. Ivankovic did not directly deny or agree.
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Ivankovic prefers to give credit to his team’s success in carrying out disciplined defense. Discipline when defending allowed China to reduce the Indonesian National Team’s attacks.
“In the second half, Indonesia dominated the attack and had the desire to score goals, so they played more aggressively.”
“We were able to limit the opponent’s attacks very well and didn’t give away many opportunities,” said Ivankovic as quoted by Dongquidi.
Ivankovic also praised the Indonesian National Team, which he considered to have provided strong resistance. That’s why he said that China really achieved this victory through hard work.
“There is no doubt that Indonesia is a strong team with many naturalized players from Europe. This match is very difficult.”
“Congratulations to the players for their hard work for this win,” said Ivankovic.
After winning over Indonesia, China has now opened up the opportunity to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. China is still at the bottom of Group C with a collection of three points, but their distance from Australia in second place is now only two points.
The top two teams in Group C will qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup. Meanwhile, the teams ranked 3rd and 4th will continue their struggle to the fourth round of the 2026 World Cup.
(jun)
