It’s the smash-and-grab to end all smash-and-grabs and one that means everything to Australia.
Synopsis: In a heart-stopping World Cup qualifier in Perth, Aziz Behich’s 90th-minute strike secured a 1-0 victory over Japan, virtually guaranteeing Australia’s place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Socceroos, under Tony Popovic’s pragmatic leadership, weathered Japan’s relentless pressure to deliver a historic win, marking their first victory over the Asian powerhouse in 16 years. Here are five key moments that defined this unforgettable match.
Japan’s Rotated Squad Still Shines
Despite securing their World Cup berth, Japan’s manager Hajime Moriyasu fielded a heavily rotated lineup, yet the Samurai Blue controlled the game from the outset. At Perth Stadium, they dominated possession, moving the ball with precision and keeping the Socceroos pinned back. Early on, Yuito Suzuki nearly broke the deadlock, weaving through Australia’s defense only to curl his shot just wide. Japan’s 69% possession and 336 passes in Australia’s half underscored their dominance, but their failure to create clear chances kept the game scoreless.
Popovic’s Defensive Masterplan
Tony Popovic, Australia’s coach since September 2024, prioritized solidity over flair. Without key midfielder Jackson Irvine, he deployed Aiden O’Neil and Ryan Teague as holding midfielders, supporting a compact back five. Wing-backs Aziz Behich and Lewis Miller played conservatively, while three central defenders, including the returning Alessandro Circati, formed a resolute wall. Up top, Brandon Borrello, Martin Boyle, and Connor Metcalfe focused on pressing rather than attacking, resulting in a cautious first half with little offensive threat until late substitutions sparked life.
Set-Pieces Offer Hope
While Japan controlled the ground game, Australia’s best moments came from set-pieces. Early corners yielded minor headers, but nothing troubled Japan’s goalkeeper. After halftime, a towering throw-in from Lewis Miller led to a Cameron Burgess header that hinted at danger. A brief lapse in Japan’s defense also created a half-chance, but it wasn’t until Behich’s late heroics that Australia capitalized, showing that aerial opportunities were their most promising route against Japan’s slick passing.
Behich’s Moment of Magic
In the dying moments, with a draw seeming inevitable, Australia found an unlikely hero. Substitute Jason Geria fed Riley McGree, who, fresh from injury, turned sharply and raced toward the byline. His cut-back fizzed across the box, evading everyone until Aziz Behich arrived. The left wing-back, not known for scoring, struck a stunning right-footed shot—his first international goal in 13 years—past Japan’s Kosei Tani. Perth Stadium erupted, and Behich’s name was etched into Australian football history.
World Cup Dreams Nearing Reality
Behich’s goal has all but secured Australia’s spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. When Popovic took over, the Socceroos were reeling from a loss to Bahrain and a draw with Indonesia, sitting fifth in their group. Now, they lead third-placed Saudi Arabia by three points with a superior goal difference, making qualification almost certain barring a catastrophic result in Jeddah. This victory, reminiscent of iconic moments like John Aloisi’s 2005 penalty or Andrew Redmayne’s 2022 heroics, marks a turning point for a resurgent Australia.
