RECAP: Socceroos’ World Cup hopes on the line in Perth against Japan
The Socceroos faced their biggest-ever match in Perth and earned a victory over Japan to all but send them to the next FIFA World Cup in North America.
The Aussies come into this one off back-to-back wins, knowing victory puts them on the brink of qualification for soccer’s showcase event.
Japan made a whopping 10 changes to their line-up in a huge boost to the home sides’ aspirations.
Recap the action from Optus Stadium in our blog.
That’s a wrap
What a night for the Socceroos!
It seemed like they would be heading to a final-game shootout with Saudi Arabia, but Behich was not having it.
His 90th-minute winner will live long in the memories of Australian sporting fans.
The Socceroos are all but certain to reach North America next year now.
So, enjoy the celebrations!
Good night.
Fans’ view
He’s how the fans celebrated the winning goal.
FULL TIME: Australia 1, Japan 0
It was a dour night that did not deserve the epic ending it got but, boy, are the Australians glad it did!
Behich, who scored his first goal in 13 years, will now join the ranks of folklore tales that weave the fabric of Australian football.
Australia just needed one breakthrough and it came in the shape of a miracle.
The Socceroos are all but World Cup bound!
GOOOAAAAL!
Out of nowhere Optus Stadium has erupted as Australia score!
They broke after an interception and played with the ball down the right side.
McGree took a touch and turn to get into the box but his cut back was miles off.
Behich didn’t care, running back and sliding his wrong foot through the ball to find the back of the net.
AUS 1 - 0 JAP 90’
Five to go
The Socceroos have not shown too many signs of wanting to go for a win but every now and then they force a mistake with pressing.
Japan still don’t look too fussed either way but it’s the final chance to land a blow.
AUS 0 - 0 JAP 87’
Lucky!
Australia’s hopes almost get broken.
Kubo took possession at the edge of the box after Australia deflected a cross.
He dummied a shot to shake three defenders before narrowly putting the shot wide of the right hand post.
Australia survive!
AUS 0 - 0 JAP 81’
Crowd
Perth has produced the largest Socceroos crowd since 2017 with 57,226 packing Optus Stadium!
AUS 0 - 0 JAP 75’
Popovic change
The Aussie boss is injecting Mitchell Duke into the game.
He scored during the last World Cup.
Jason Geria is also coming on as Borrello and Miller swap out.
AUS 0 - 0 JAP 67’
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