When the next World Cup rolls around — in Qatar next autumn — China will once again be missing. That in itself isn’t shocking, considering China has appeared in only one World Cup and is more accustomed to ignominy during the qualifying process. But what ails Chinese football currently runs much deeper.
Meanwhile: Zhao Xintong becomes third Chinese player to win a snooker Triple Crown title.
On a jam-packed show, we discuss the latest drama with the Chinese men’s hockey team – who may still get kicked out of the Olympics...
Also in this week's China Sports Column: The Chinese men’s national team face a nearly impossible task to qualify for next year’s Qatar World Cup following a disappointing draw against Oman.
Financial woes threaten to bring down yet another club in China's top soccer league.
Meanwhile: Wu Lei's 95th-minute goal gives China 3-2 win over Vietnam in crucial World Cup qualifier.
Meanwhile: China lost to Japan 1-0 in World Cup qualifying last Tuesday, dropping it to 0-2 in its group. China has not beaten Japan since 1988.
Also: China's men's soccer team outplayed in two World Cup qualifiers, losing to Australia and Japan.
Also: China’s 20 golds top the Tokyo Paralympics so far.