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Socceroos Edge Japan 1-0 in Thrilling Perth Qualifier, Close in on 2026 World Cup Berth

Alex
Socceroos Edge Japan 1-0 in Thrilling Perth Qualifier, Close in on 2026 World Cup Berth PERTH, AUSTRALIA – June 5, 2025  – The Australian Socceroos have taken a monumental step towards securing their place at the FIFA World Cup 2026, delivering a dramatic 1-0 victory over already-qualified Japan in a nail-biting qualifier at Optus Stadium in Perth. Veteran defender Aziz Behich emerged as the hero, striking in the 90th minute to send the sell-out crowd into raptures and end Australia's 16-year winless streak against the Samurai Blue. The crucial Group C encounter, marking Matchday 9 of the AFC Third Round Qualifiers, saw a determined Socceroos side grind out a result against a technically proficient Japanese outfit. Match Highlights: A Gritty Performance Culminates in Late Drama From the outset, Japan, who had already secured their spot in the 2026 World Cup and fielded a slightly experimental squad, dictated possession and looked the more comfortable side on the ball. The Samurai Blue …