Chung Mong-gyu, president of the Korea Football Association, spoke about the problems of Chinese soccer.
The Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee of the National Assembly conducted a comprehensive audit of the Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee on Monday. Chairman Chung Mong-gyu was present as a witness and asked various questions.
Rep. Park Soo-hyun asked Chairman Chung Mong-gyu why is soccer weak in China, which has a population of 1.3 billion? Chung replied, “I think there are many reasons. There are many rumors that players are not selected properly because of illegal gambling. I am not sure about the exact amount.”
Chairman Chung Mong-gyu’s remarks also drew attention in China. Chinese media “Sina Sports” reported that Chairman Chung Mong-gyu said that Chinese soccer is weak due to problems such as illegal gambling. Upon hearing this, Chinese fans responded by saying, “It is very accurate,” “This is why waiting is more important,” and “The onlookers know better.”
The Chinese soccer team has been suffering from a negative trend recently. At the Asian Cup held early this year, the team humiliatingly failed to pass the group stage. It even failed to score a single goal during the three group matches, and had two draws and one loss.
In the end, Aleksandar Yankovic left the Chinese national team and Ivankovic replaced him. Contrary to expectations, however, Ivankovic has failed to change the Chinese national team. China also barely passed the second Asian regional qualifying round for the 2026 North-China World Cup. China and Thailand had the same points but advanced to the third qualifying round by outpacing each other.
China was lethargic in the third qualifying round as well. China lost to Japan, Saudi Arabia and Australia in succession. China’s World Cup tickets have increased, but China’s chances of advancing to the World Cup finals have decreased. Rumors have emerged that Ivankovic will be replaced. 토토사이트
China beat Indonesia in the fourth round to post its first win in the third round. However, the Chinese team is still at the bottom of Group C. China and Indonesia share the same points but are lagging behind each other in points difference. China needs to secure points in the November A-match in order to advance to the fourth round. China will have showdowns with Bahrain and Japan.