Maldives – China match to be moved to Thailand
The match may be relocated to Chang Arena in Thailand's Buriram Province
Maldives-China football match
Chinese media has reported that the upcoming Fifa World Cup 2022 qualifier between China and the Maldives may be hosted by Thailand.
While the match is currently set to be held in China on March 26th, Chinese media reports that the match may be relocated to Chang Arena in Thailand's Buriram Province due to concerns regarding the country's coronavirus situation.
According to media reports, the China Football Association (CFA) has requested the Football Association of Thailand (FAT) to host the second round of the 2022 FIFA World Cup match against the Maldives at Thailand's Chang Arena.
Although the Football Association of Thailand (FAT) is yet to respond, an official announcement will be made in the coming week after consulting with the country's Ministry of Health, Tourism and Sports, says Chinese media reports.
The Maldives National football team has already begun preparations for the match against China. As such, a team consisting of 31 players has already been established.
China defeated the Maldives in the first round of the qualifier that was held in the country's home field with a score of 0-5. However, the Chinese team's coach Marcello Lippi resigned after the team lost to Syria by 1-2.
Syria ranked at the top of the group during the first round of the qualifiers after winning all 54 matches and scoring 15 points. China ranked second with seven points from four successful games, followed by the Philippines team who also scored seven points but from five games. Likewise, the Maldives ranked fourth with six points while Guam came last with zero points.
