Popovic Urges Australia to Seize World Cup Spot Ahead of Japan Clash

PERTH, Australia  — Socceroos coach Tony Popovic has issued a rallying cry to his squad ahead of Thursday’s pivotal World Cup qualifier against Japan, challenging them to “finish the job” and secure automatic qualification for the 2026 tournament in North America.

With 50,000 fans expected at Optus Stadium despite storm warnings, Australia enters the match holding a three-point advantage over Saudi Arabia in Group C of Asian qualifying. A victory would virtually guarantee passage to their sixth consecutive World Cup.

Stakes Couldn’t Be Higher

The equation is simple for the Socceroos:

• Win: Almost certainly qualifies automatically

• Draw/Loss: Forces decisive final match against Saudi Arabia in Jeddah

“We can take a major step tomorrow night by winning,” Popovic told reporters Wednesday. “There’s real excitement but also calmness in our group.”

Historic Opportunity

Australia hasn’t defeated Japan since 2009, but faces a depleted Samurai Blue squad missing key players:

• Ao Tanaka (Leeds United)

• Junya Ito (Reims)

• Hidemasa Morita (Sporting Lisbon)

In contrast, Australia welcomes back Parma defender Alessandro Circati from ACL injury, bolstering an already strong squad.

Tactical Preview

Key Matchups:

• Wataru Endo (Japan) vs Jackson Irvine (Australia) – Midfield battle

• Takefusa Kubo (Japan) vs Aziz Behich (Australia) – Wing danger

• Mitchell Duke (Australia) vs Japanese backline – Physicality test

Weather Factor: Stormy conditions may favor Australia’s direct style over Japan’s technical approach.

Coaches’ Corner

Popovic: “At some point Australia will beat Japan. We want to take that opportunity tomorrow.”

Moriyasu: “Our ultimate goal is World Cup victory. Every match builds toward that.”