If we can fight on the pitch, anything is possible: China

China's renewed confidence will face the ultimate test on Nov 19, as Branko Ivankovic's side look to build on consecutive World Cup qualifying wins when they host Japan, who thrashed them 7-0 in September.

Victories over Indonesia and Bahrain have seen the Chinese overcome three losses at the start of the third phase of Asia's preliminaries, rekindling dreams of a first World Cup appearance since their debut at the 2002 Finals.

However, the strength of China's recovery will be challenged when Hajime Moriyasu's runaway Group C leaders visit Xiamen, threatening to dredge up painful memories of that defeat at the Saitama Stadium.

"We started the opening round with a big loss in Japan, and I was glad to see my players overcome the challenges and improve their performances match by match," said Ivankovic.

"Now we are level with Australia, Saudi Arabia with six points, and I am satisfied with the efficiency.