SportlyTalk

As a football analyst, I often dissect matches with cold, hard data. But sometimes, luck trumps tactics. China's 2002 World Cup qualification is one such case. A rare change in FIFA's ranking system, favorable group draws, and avoiding stronger Asian rivals like Iran and Saudi Arabia—these factors combined to create the perfect storm for China's historic qualification. Let's break down why this was more about being in the right place at the right time than pure footballing prowess.