Aziz Behich scored a dramatic 90th-minute winner to secure Australia a 1-0 victory over Japan in Perth on Thursday, bringing the Socceroos to the brink of qualification for the FIFA 2026 World Cup.
Socceroos Near World Cup Spot
With only the top two from Asia’s Group C assured a place at the World Cup, Australia now sits six points clear of third place. Their qualification for a sixth straight World Cup could be confirmed later Thursday—if Saudi Arabia, their final group opponent, fails to win against Bahrain.
Japan Field Experimental Side
Already qualified for the next stage, Japan fielded a largely inexperienced lineup, with only Daichi Kamada and Koki Machida having more than four caps. Despite dominating possession and creating more chances, the visitors couldn’t convert.
Missed Chances for Japan
Takefusa Kubo had Japan’s best opportunity late in the game but failed to hit the target from inside the box. That miss proved costly.
Australia Ends 16-Year Drought
In the dying minutes, Riley McGree burst down the right flank and delivered a perfect cutback to Behich, who curled the ball into the net—sealing Australia’s first win over Japan in 16 years and igniting celebrations at Perth Stadium.
What’s Next in Asian Qualifying
Teams finishing third and fourth in each of the three Asian groups will move to a fourth qualifying round, battling for the last two World Cup spots available for the continent.
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