China misses another World Cup as the nation's decades-long pursuit of soccer success has faltered despite massive investment.
A viral amateur league featuring delivery drivers and villagers is drawing millions of viewers and rekindling grassroots enthusiasm.
Experts say building soccer culture from the bottom up may finally offer China a path to the World Cup.
AI-generated summary was reviewed by a CNN editor.
As the World Cup grips North America this summer, China will again watch from the sidelines.
