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China vs Japan Live Stream & Tips – China to Cover in the World Cup 2027 Qualifiers

vedran-ostojic
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Last updated: Thu 02 Jul 2026 23:13
China, historically one of the most dominant basketball teams in Asia, narrowly lost last year's final to Australia in a thrilling match. Although they were inconsistent in the early rounds of this year's qualifiers, their performance has significantly improved. Given this momentum, experts predict China will cover the handicap and perform strongly against Japan. The recommendation is to back China's resurgence in their upcoming match.
Vedran Ostojic 54 minutes ago
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  • China had rough start but recovered with two straight wins
  • We are backing them to beat Japan in handicap
  • Watch China vs Japan live in the FIBA World Cup 2027 qualifiers
Watch China vs Japan Live (Getty Images)
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Match Preview 


One of the biggest Asian rivalries gets renewed on Friday, a high-stakes match for both sides who seek points for the next qualifying phase. China are tagged big favorites in terms of the latest odds.

China Chains Third Straight Win


China were surely hoping for more than just two victories from their opening four matches in the FIBA World Cup 2027 Asian qualifiers, currently sitting in 3rd place in Group B and yet to claim a spot in the next phase. 

They were tagged as massive favorites in the opening clash against South Korea but shockingly lost at home 80-76 due to a poor first half (trailing by 13 points), then were also beaten by the same opponent 90-76 in the reverse tie. 

Their first victory was recorded in the third round, beating Japan 87-80 in Okinawa after once again enduring a poor first half (33-47) before pulling off a comeback. China made it two in a row in their most recent appearance, beating minnows Taiwan 100-93. 

Japan Struggle Against China Traditionally


Japan’s chances of advancing to the second phase are extremely high after securing three victories in the opening four rounds in Group B. 

After cruising past underdog Taiwan 90-64 in the opening match, the Samurai defeated the same opposition 80-73 as visitors in early December but then slipped in their first true test in the third round against China 87-80. 

They returned to winning ways instantly, defeating South Korea 78-72 at home, although it proved harder than initially expected, controlling the boards with a 41-28 rebounding advantage. Josh Hawkinson was named man of the match with 24 points and seven rebounds. 

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Verdict

China are one of the most dominant Asian teams in recent years, losing last year’s final to Australia 90-89 in dramatic fashion. They were inconsistent in the early stages of these qualifiers but have stepped up drastically, so I expect them to cover the handicap against Japan. 

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