According to “Varzesh3,” the Chinese website “Sohu.com” reported: “The Chinese Football Association still trusts Ivankovic and has decided to travel with him to Indonesia.”

Currently, the Chinese national football team is not in good form. China was striving to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a goal that seemed achievable given the expansion of participating teams from 32 to 48. However, China’s elimination from the competition is now closer than ever. In the third round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in the Asian region, China sits at the bottom of Group C with 2 wins and 6 losses. The top two teams from each group advance directly to the World Cup, while the third and fourth-placed teams enter the playoffs.

To reach the playoffs, China must secure maximum points in their remaining matches. In the June international window, China will travel to Indonesia for an away match before hosting Bahrain.

Ivankovic to Remain in Charge

It appears the Chinese Football Association remains committed to Ivankovic. Sohu.com wrote: “China’s chances of direct qualification for the World Cup are very slim. The only remaining hope for the national team is to reach the playoffs. To achieve this, China must win both matches in June. Some fans believe a better head coach should be appointed and have called for Ivankovic’s dismissal. However, the Chinese Football Association has stated it will continue to support Ivankovic’s plans. Song Kai, the association’s president, believes changing the coach will not help secure victory against Indonesia.”

The report concluded: “Appointing a new head coach would entail significant costs. Considering the limited budget, the association president has decided against making changes and will retain Ivankovic. Song Kai believes keeping Ivankovic in charge is a wise decision.”