The trend is particularly grim: across their last three outings, the squad has failed to score a single goal while conceding nine, following a 0-3 loss to New Zealand and a 0-5 thrashing by Palestine. This defeat also marks the first time in history that China has lost to Tajikistan. In the 53rd minute, goalkeeper Liu Dianzuo spilled the ball to concede the decisive goal, and just six minutes later, forward Wei Shihao was shown a red card, leaving the ten-man side unable to mount a comeback.
Following the match, China's real-time FIFA ranking slipped from 91st down to 95th. With an ongoing scoring drought, avoidable defensive errors, and tumbling rankings, the team continues to struggle for answers on the pitch.
