ReFFD

As a data scientist obsessed with sports analytics, I couldn't resist digging into China's improbable 2002 World Cup qualification. This article breaks down how an unusual seeding rule change and favorable draw created the perfect storm for China's historic advancement. We'll examine the FIFA ranking anomalies, analyze the Asian Cup-based seeding system (used only once in history), and calculate just how statistically unlikely this scenario was. Whether you're a football analyst or just love underdog stories, this is sports probability at its most fascinating.