Japan vs Australia AFC Asian Qualifiers

Match Overview

• Japan hosted Australia with a strong record of three wins from three matches.
• Australia had a slow start in qualification but recently won 2-1 against China PR.
• Japan's last match was a significant 2-0 win against Saudi Arabia.

Match Highlights

First Half

• 6th Minute: Kubo had a chance for Japan, but hit the side netting.
  • The ball was deflected as he toe-poked it.
• Japan dominated possession with 70% but struggled to break down Australia's defense.
• 34th Minute: Mitoma attempted a curler for Japan, deflected just off the shoulder of an Australian defender.

Second Half

• 57th Minute: Minamino's diving header was off target for Japan.
• 58th Minute: Australia scored via an own goal by Taniguchi.
  • This was Japan's first goal conceded in qualification.
• Late Game:
  • Subsequent Attack: Tanaka's shot was easily saved by Gauchi.
  • Nakamura’s weaving run resulted in another own goal, this time by Burgess, making it 1-1.
  • Mitoma's deflected shot over the bar as Australia continued strong defense.
  • Final Chance: Ito’s corner was easily caught by Gauchi.

Match Outcome

• The match concluded as a 1-1 draw.
• This was Japan’s first dropped points in the qualifiers.
• Japan remains unbeaten in their last 10 matches against Australia.
• They continue to lead their qualification group.