Wei Shihao, who missed China's first two matches in the 2026 World Cup Asian Qualifiers, expressed optimism on Tuesday about his team's chances in their upcoming clash with Australia.

Wei Shihao (R) of China vies with Morita Hidemasa of Japan during the Group B match between China and Japan of FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Qualifier in Saitama, Japan, Jan. 27, 2022. (Xinhua/Zhang Xiaoyu)

"Football is unpredictable," said Wei, who plays for Chinese Super League side Chengdu Rongcheng. "It's not guaranteed who will win; both sides have a chance."

With less than 48 hours until the game, tensions were high at China's training session at Service FM Stadium, on the outskirts of Adelaide. The team is under pressure following back-to-back defeats in their first two matches.

Wei, who was suspended by the Chinese Football Association for a violent foul on a Wuhan player during a Super League match in April, has been recalled by head coach Branko Ivankovic due to injuries to key players Wu Lei and Alan.

"I think every player who joins the national team is ready," Wei said. "There's always pressure, but we're using it as motivation to improve and perform well in the upcoming games."

China is currently at the bottom of Group C, after suffering a 7-0 defeat to Japan in their opening match, followed by a 2-1 home loss to a 10-man Saudi Arabia.

Commenting on these defeats, Wei said, "We're definitely going to make some adjustments. There will be changes in our mentality and other areas."

Under Ivankovic, Wei has often been deployed as a center forward, rather than his usual position as a winger. Despite the shift, he believes players must adapt to different tactical plans.

"Every coach has their own approach," Wei noted. "As players, we need to be flexible. Whether it's playing on the wing, as an attacking midfielder, or deeper, it benefits you. Coaches shouldn't adapt to you; you need to adapt to the coach."

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