The Socceroos face a tough task in the form of the blue samurai of Japan. The team’s 2-2 draw with Oman last month means direct World Cup qualification still hangs firmly in the balance. But destiny, and their own fate, are still well and truly in their hands
With a direct plane ticket straight to Qatar within grasp for the victor, this fascinating clash has all the ingredients for an instant classic. Even a draw against Japan means the Socceroos will be one step closer to Doha. The Socceroos however, they’re not a team who play for draws.
The way the Asian World Cup Qualification standings are currently set, this game can be the difference between guaranteed qualification for the Socceroos or having to go through two more rounds of qualifying – with the team needing two wins from their final two games to directly qualify for the World Cup in November.
The Socceroos currently sit three points behind Japan in third position in Group B, with the top two teams guaranteed qualification into the World Cup in Qatar and the third-placed teams from both Group A and B facing off in the fourth round of qualifying.
If Australia were to win the third-place playoff they would then be set to play against the fifth-placed team from South American qualifying at the inter-confederation play-offs, with the winner advancing to the World Cup Finals.
Ahead of the match in Sydney, Socceroos forward Marco Tilio is excited for what’s to come and the atmosphere in the stadium.
“We’re very excited and expecting a huge crowd and everyone to get behind us as the 12th man.”
“We’re going out there to get the job done, to get the win. As I said, with the fans behind us and seeing the history we’ve had at this stadium, it can only be good things hopefully ahead.”
“There’s so much confidence and energy coming through the group with us young boys in there, and we are hoping to be able to deliver on Thursday”, Tilio said.
The Socceroos take to Stadium Australia tonight as they chase the opportunity to take on the world. There is everything to play for and there is no doubt the team are ready. Be in the stands as bring the noise. Never underestimate the power of you, the team’s 12th player.