Ole Romeny scored the only goal, his controversial penalty just before half-time following a VAR check leaving China at the bottom of Asian qualifying Group C with one game remaining.
The result leaves Indonesia in the coveted fourth spot to remain alive in qualifying for next year’s tournament in North America.
Indonesia have 12 points with one game remaining, with teams finishing third and fourth going into a further round of qualifying for 2026.
Now, only Bahrain can catch them, but they must beat Saudi Arabia at home later on Thursday.
Earlier on Thursday, Australia moved to the brink of the World Cup after beating already qualified Japan 1-0 in Perth thanks to Aziz Behich’s 90th-minute winner.
After beating Japan for the first time since 2009, Australia are all but assured of a berth at next year’s tournament in North America.
Before the game the Socceroos had a three-point lead and a significantly better goal difference over Saudi Arabia with two matches left.
The win does not totally guarantee Australia’s passage, with Saudi Arabia at Bahrain later on Thursday.
Australia face Saudi Arabia in Jeddah on June 10 in their final Group C match in the battle for second behind Japan. (AFP)
