Aussie FIFA Series kicks off with China defeating Curaçao 2-0 in Sydney

Wei Shihao and Zhang Yuning found the net on either side of halftime at Stadium Australia in Sydney, serving as a stark reminder for the small nation before their inaugural participation in the worldwide tournament in North America during June and July.

Curaçao, home to only 156,000 people, holds the record as the tiniest country to ever reach a World Cup.

Nevertheless, they advanced through CONCACAF qualification without a loss under the guidance of Dutch coach Advocaat, securing three victories and three draws, and the seasoned 78-year-old was anticipated to lead them into this historic moment.

However, he departed unexpectedly last month to attend to his ailing daughter and was succeeded by Rutten.

This marked a disappointing debut for the ex-manager of FC Twente, PSV Eindhoven, Feyenoord, and Schalke, as his team faces a tough Group E at the World Cup with Germany, Ivory Coast, and Ecuador.

China, who missed out on World Cup qualification, controlled the opening stages of the friendly encounter within the FIFA Series 2026.

Yet Curaçao created the initial opportunity, as former Birmingham City midfielder Juninho Bacuna unleashed a shot from distance that just evaded the post.

China, positioned 93rd in the rankings compared to Curaçao's 81st, had to hold on until the 40th minute for their initial promising moment, when Wang Shangyuan fired high over the crossbar.

But with another chance arriving in added time of the first half, they capitalised effectively.

Goalkeeper Yan Junling launched a lengthy pass ahead, which was nodded towards Wei, who slotted it home with finesse.

China extended their advantage in the 59th minute as captain Zhang pounced on a mishandled clearance inside the penalty area and rifled the ball into the far corner, leaving a growingly exasperated Curaçao unable to reply.