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4d ago

Behich’s 90th-Minute Strike Puts Australia on Brink of 2026 World Cup

Aziz Behich's last-gasp goal ended a 16-year winless run against Japan, leaving Australia's qualification conditional on Saudi Arabia's result versus Bahrain.

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Soccer Football - AFC Asian Cup - Quarter Final - Australia v South Korea - Al Janoub Stadium, Al Wakrah, Qatar - February 2, 2024 Australia's Aziz Behich reacts REUTERS/Thaier Al-Sudani
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Overview

  • Aziz Behich pounced on Riley McGree’s cut-back in the 90th minute at Optus Stadium to secure a 1-0 win over Japan, marking Australia's first triumph against the Samurai Blue since 2009.
  • Japan dominated large portions of the match with roughly 70 percent possession in the first half and fielded an experimental lineup featuring three debutants while resting several regulars.
  • The Socceroos now sit second in AFC Group C with 16 points and a +8 goal difference, placing them six points clear of third-placed Saudi Arabia with one fixture remaining.
  • Australia will clinch direct World Cup qualification if Saudi Arabia fails to beat Bahrain later Thursday, otherwise their fate hinges on the June 11 showdown in Jeddah.
  • Australia travels to King Abdullah Sports City on June 11 to face Saudi Arabia, where earning a point will guarantee their place at the 2026 World Cup regardless of other outcomes.