This victory marks Australia’s first win against Japan in 16 years. Japan, already having secured qualification, did not field all of its star players in the initial lineup.

Some of their biggest players, like Kaoru Mitoma and Daizen Maeda, sat the game out.

Japan dominates possession in the first half

Japan’s first serious attack came in the 27th minute, when Suzuki nearly scored the match’s first goal.

Connor Metcalfe of the Socceroos attempts a header on goal during the 2026 FIFA men’s World Cup qualifier match between the Australia Socceroos and Japan. Source: AAP / Richard Wainwright

Australia had their first real chance in the 32nd minute, when Ryan Teague’s header from their first corner narrowly missed the post.

In the 36th minute, Hirakawa unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box, which put Australia on notice.

Nail-biting finish

For the Socceroos, McGree and Yazbeck replaced Teague and Boyle in midfield, while Japan brought Seko in place of their other defender, Machida.

But it was Behich’s curved ball just before the final whistle that brought the almost 60,000 person strong crowd to its feet.

What’s next?

Six teams will be split into two groups of three, with each team competing against the others in their group once. The victors of both groups will advance to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

When and where is the next Socceroos match?