Match Preview
The United States have won their last six meetings with China across all competitions, and the odds suggest that streak is likely to continue in Round 9 of the Nations League 2026.
USA Closing In on the Final Tournament
The United States are in an excellent position to qualify for the Nations League 2026 final tournament after winning six of their opening eight matches. They enter this round second in the standings.
After ending Week 1 with a dramatic 3-2 defeat to reigning world champions Italy, the Americans opened Week 2 with back-to-back straight-set victories over Cuba and Iran before falling 3-2 to table leaders Japan.
They responded immediately in their next outing, leaving Serbia with little chance and securing a comfortable 3-1 victory.
China Struggling But Earned Automatic Qualification
China have already secured a place in the final tournament as the host nation, but their performances throughout the campaign have been disappointing. They currently sit 17th in the standings with just one win from eight matches.
Their only victory came in mid-June against bottom-placed Cuba, winning 3-0. Since then, they have suffered three consecutive defeats in Week 2 against Turkey (3-0), Belgium (3-1) and Argentina (3-1).
China also struggled in their most recent Nations League appearance against Germany, managing to take one set before eventually losing 3-1.