Australia Secures Crucial 1-0 Win Over Japan in World Cup Qualifier

Australia secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Japan in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian qualifiers thanks to a dramatic 90th-minute goal by veteran defender Aziz Behich. This win, Australia's first against Japan since 2009, puts the Socceroos in a strong position to qualify for their sixth consecutive World Cup, needing only to avoid a heavy defeat to Saudi Arabia or rely on Saudi Arabia failing to beat Bahrain. Despite Japan dominating possession and creating several chances with an experimental squad, Australia's disciplined defense and late substitution play by Riley McGree set up Behich's decisive goal. The victory ended Japan's 21-game unbeaten run and energized the home crowd at Perth Stadium. With two matches left in Group C, Australia holds a six-point lead over Saudi Arabia and a superior goal difference, bringing them close to automatic qualification for the tournament in North America. Coach Tony Popovic's leadership since September has been credited with the team's turnaround and resilience in this campaign.