Australia edges closer to World Cup qualification

June 05, 2025 / 8:42 PM

Sharjah 24 – Reuters: The Australian national team took a major step toward securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup—set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico—with a crucial 1-0 win over Japan on Thursday in Perth. The match was part of the penultimate round of Group C.

Aziz Behich secures victory in stoppage time

Melbourne City defender Aziz Behich scored the match-winning goal in the first minute of stoppage time, converting a pass from Middlesbrough striker Riley McGarry. The dramatic goal came in front of a packed crowd of 57,226 at Optus Stadium and marked Australia’s fourth win in the qualifiers—and their third consecutive victory.

Historic win against Japan

This win was particularly significant as it marked Australia’s first triumph over Japan since 2009. It solidified the Socceroos' second-place position in the group with 16 points.

Qualification outlook for Group C

Australia now trails group leaders Japan by four points, with Japan already qualified for the finals. The Socceroos are six points ahead of third-placed Saudi Arabia, who face Bahrain later. With a superior goal difference (+8 to -2), Australia has a strong advantage going into the final round.