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3d ago

Australia Beats Japan 1-0 to Edge Closer to Sixth Straight World Cup

Australia’s 1-0 win over Japan puts the Socceroos within sight of a sixth consecutive World Cup spot as they head to Jeddah needing to avoid a five-goal loss to Saudi Arabia on June 10.

Soccer Football - World Cup - AFC Qualifiers - Group C - Australia v Japan - Perth Stadium, Perth, Australia - June 5, 2025 Australia's Aziz Behich celebrates after scoring their first goal with teammates Richard Wainwright/AAP Image via REUTERS ATTENTION EDITORS - THIS IMAGE WAS PROVIDED BY A THIRD PARTY. NO RESALES. NO ARCHIVES. AUSTRALIA OUT. NEW ZEALAND OUT TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY
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Overview

  • Aziz Behich’s 90th-minute strike secured Australia’s first victory over Japan in 16 years and lifted the Socceroos to 16 points in Group C.
  • Saudi Arabia’s 2-0 win over Bahrain keeps their qualification hopes alive and sets up a decisive showdown with Australia in Jeddah.
  • Australia’s +8 goal difference means they can concede up to four goals against Saudi Arabia and still qualify automatically.
  • Japan, already assured of their place, rested key players and finish Group C at the top on 20 points.
  • Uzbekistan booked its first-ever World Cup appearance after a 0-0 draw with the UAE confirmed second place in Group A.