Australia to flip the script

The Australian football team, known as the Socceroos, is determined to secure their first victory against Japan on Japanese soil during the World Cup qualifying match in Saitama. Defender Kye Rowles expressed the importance of the game, especially as it marks nearly the halfway point in the qualification process, and emphasized the need to 'flip the script' after a series of defeats to Japan. Currently, Japan leads Group C with three wins, scoring 14 goals without conceding, while Australia sits in second place after a recent 3-1 victory over China under new coach Tony Popovic. Rowles noted the motivation provided by Japan's hostile crowd and the fierce rivalry that has developed since Australia joined the Asian confederation in 2006. Both teams aim to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup, with the top two from each group automatically qualifying. The match holds significant implications for Australia's aspirations in the qualifying rounds.