China coach Branko Ivankovic emphasized his team's mental readiness and determination to win their must-win World Cup qualifier against Indonesia despite the intense pressure.

by sportswriter Wang Zijiang

JAKARTA, June 4 (Xinhua) -- China coach Branko Ivankovic said Wednesday that his team is mentally prepared for Thursday's do-or-die FIFA World Cup qualifier against Indonesia, despite the challenging environment at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, which will be packed with nearly 80,000 home fans.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Ivankovic acknowledged the pressure his team will face, noting that the stadium has been a fortress for Indonesia where only Japan managed to win in the Group C matches.

"We are well aware of the pressure playing in Indonesia's home stadium, and we've been preparing the players to turn that pressure into motivation," Ivankovic said. "Indonesia has strengthened its squad with naturalized players, making this a difficult match for us. We need to stay focused and avoid any distractions."

The game is set for 9:45 p.m. Beijing time, with the stakes high for both teams. Over 200 reporters attended the press conference, underscoring the importance of the fixture.

When asked about recent additions to the Chinese squad, Ivankovic said, "For the new players, especially those playing in the final 18-team round for the first time, I hope they can prove their value."

Ivankovic did not provide details about the physical condition of central defender Jiang Guangtai, who has been recovering from an injury. "It's not convenient to discuss individual players before the match. Every team faces injuries. Whether starting or coming off the bench, all players are prepared to meet the demands of the game," he said.

Jiang sustained an injury in March against Saudi Arabia and missed China's home game against Australia in March.

According to tournament rules, the top two in each six-team group advance directly to the World Cup, while the third- and fourth-placed teams enter the playoffs. With two matches remaining, Indonesia sits fourth in Group C with nine points, while China is level with Bahrain at the bottom on six points.

Indonesia holds a three-point lead over China and a seven-goal edge in goal difference. A home win would all but guarantee Indonesia a top-four finish. For China, there is only one way to keep their World Cup hopes alive: win on Indonesian soil.

China forward Zhang Yuning, alongside Ivankovic at the press conference, emphasized, "For the victory, I will give everything on the field."

He noted that the players had thoroughly prepared for the game during their stay in China, and in the two days since arriving in Jakarta.

"Beyond victory, any other result is meaningless," he added.

Zhang scored the second goal for China in a 2-1 home win over Indonesia in Qingdao last October.

"It's going to be a very tough match with a lot of pressure. To achieve the result we want, everyone will push themselves to their physical limits on the field."