China: Coach fired over team's qualifications

In a swift and decisive move, Chinese football authorities announced the dismissal of team's head coach Branko Ivankovic. According to news sources, it came following the team’s disappointing failure of Chinese team to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This decision reflects the frustration within the Chinese Football Association and among fans who were eager to see the team's progress on the international stage.

Ivankovic, a Croatian coach was hired two years ago with what social media enthusiasm reflects as high expectations. The team did not go past the qualifying rounds, culminating in a fifth-place finish. Despite some promising moments during his tenure, the results fell short of ambitions fueled by heavy investment and national enthusiasm.

The football federation expressed the need for “fresh leadership and innovative strategies” for future scope of the sports in China. This development underscores the growing pressure on national teams across Asia to deliver results amid increasing global competition.