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This was Australia’s first win against Japan in 16 years. Japan, which had already qualified, did not have its biggest names in the starting squad.
Some of their biggest players, like Kaoru Mitoma and Daizen Maeda, sat the game out.
Japan dominates possession in the first half
Japan’s first serious attack came in the 27th minute, when Suzuki nearly scored the match’s first goal.
Connor Metcalfe of the Socceroos heads the ball for a chance on goal during the 2026 FIFA men’s World Cup qualifier match between Australia Socceroos and Japan. Source: AAP / Richard Wainwright
Australia had their first real chance in the 32nd minute, when Ryan Teague’s header from their first corner narrowly missed the post.
In the 36th minute, Hirakawa unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box, which put Australia on notice.
Nail-biting finish
For the Socceroos, McGree and Yazbeck replaced Teague and Boyle in midfield, while Japan brought Seko in place of their other defender, Machida.
But it was Behich’s curved ball just before the final whistle that brought the almost 60,000 person strong crowd to its feet.
What’s next?
Six nations will be divided into two groups of three, with each team playing against the others in their group once. The winners of both groups will qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
