Japan National Football Team vs Australia National Football Team Prediction, Preview, Lineups, and Team News | AFC World Cup Qualifiers, October 15, 2024.
The AFC World Cup Qualifiers continue on October 15, 2024, with a thrilling showdown between two Asian football powerhouses—Japan and Australia. Both teams have been dominant in their campaigns, and this match at Saitama Stadium promises to be a high-stakes encounter with World Cup qualification on the line.
Japan vs Australia Preview
Japan and Australia are the top contenders from Group C in the AFC World Cup Qualifiers. The match will mark the fourth game for both teams, and fans are excited about the competitive nature of this fixture, given the recent form of both teams.
Japan comes into this game with a stunning record in the qualifiers. The Samurai Blue have won all seven of their qualifying matches so far, scoring an incredible 28 goals and keeping a perfect defensive record with zero goals conceded. The team has displayed superior form and clinical finishing, making them one of the favorites to qualify for the World Cup.
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Australia, on the other hand, has shown impressive consistency but trails slightly behind Japan. The Socceroos have won five of their seven matches, with one draw and one loss. They have scored 17 goals and conceded just two, proving their defense is solid. However, their attack will be put to the test against Japan’s impenetrable defense.
This match is expected to be a battle of tactics, resilience, and key players who could turn the tide.
Japan National Football Team News
Manager: Hajime Moriyasu
The Japanese national team, under manager Hajime Moriyasu, has been in outstanding form. In their last match, Japan secured a 2-0 win against Saudi Arabia, extending their unbeaten run in the qualifiers. With no major injuries reported, Moriyasu will likely field a strong lineup as they face their toughest test yet in Australia.
Key players such as Hidemasa Morita and Takumi Minamino have been pivotal in Japan’s campaign, and they will be expected to play leading roles once again. With Japan’s dominance in the qualifiers, they are in a prime position to continue their winning streak.
Australia National Football Team News
Manager: Tony Popovic
The Australian national team, led by Tony Popovic, comes into this match after an impressive 3-1 victory over China. However, there is concern over the fitness of Nestory Irankunda, who picked up a knock in the last game. His potential absence could be a blow for Australia, but they still have plenty of depth to compete against Japan.
Craig Goodwin has been in excellent form, contributing with goals and assists. Along with captain Jackson Irvine, Australia will need a solid team performance to overcome Japan’s well-organized defense.
Japan vs Australia Predicted Lineups
Japan National Football Team Predicted Lineup (3-4-2-1):
- Goalkeeper: Zion Suzuki
- Defenders: Ko Itakura, Shogo Taniguchi, Koki Machida
- Midfielders: Ritsu Doan, Wataru Endo (C), Hidemasa Morita, Kaoru Mitoma
- Forwards: Takumi Minamino, Ayase Ueda, Daichi Kamada
Australia National Football Team Predicted Lineup (3-4-2-1):
- Goalkeeper: Joe Gauci
- Defenders: Thomas Deng, Harry Souttar, Kye Rowles
- Midfielders: Lewis Miller, Aiden O’Neill, Jackson Irvine (C), Aziz Behich
- Forwards: Craig Goodwin, Mitchell Duke, Riley McGree
Head-to-Head Record
In recent meetings, Japan has dominated Australia, winning four of their last five encounters. The last time these teams met was during the 2022 World Cup Qualifiers, where Japan claimed a 2-0 victory. Australia has not managed to win against Japan in their last five fixtures, with their best result being a 1-1 draw in 2016.
| Date | Match | Competition |
|---|---|---|
| 24/03/22 | Australia 0-2 Japan | World Cup Qualifiers |
| 12/10/21 | Japan 2-1 Australia | World Cup Qualifiers |
| 31/08/17 | Japan 2-0 Australia | World Cup Qualifiers |
| 11/10/16 | Australia 1-1 Japan | World Cup Qualifiers |
| 18/11/14 | Japan 2-1 Australia | Friendly |
Key Players to Watch
Hidemasa Morita (Japan National Football Team)
Midfielder Hidemasa Morita has been in stellar form for Japan. The Sporting CP star was crucial in Japan’s recent victories, contributing with goals and assists. Morita’s ability to break down defenses and provide key passes will be essential for Japan as they aim to maintain their perfect record in the qualifiers.
Craig Goodwin (Australia National Football Team)
Australia’s forward Craig Goodwin has been one of the standout performers for the Socceroos. He scored in their last match against China and is central to their attacking setup. Goodwin’s versatility and knack for scoring important goals make him a player to watch in this encounter.
Japan vs Australia Prediction
Japan’s dominance in the AFC World Cup Qualifiers, combined with their formidable home advantage, makes them the favorites to win this clash. Although Australia has been resilient, Japan’s solid defense and lethal attack are expected to overpower the Socceroos. Expect a closely fought match, but Japan’s superior form and depth may give them the edge.
Soccer Baba Prediction: Japan 2-1 Australia
FAQs: Japan vs Australia – AFC World Cup Qualifiers
- When is the Japan vs Australia match?
The match will take place on October 15, 2024, at 10:35 AM GMT. - Where is the match being held?
The match will be played at Saitama Stadium in Japan. - Who is the head coach of Japan?
Hajime Moriyasu is the head coach of Japan. - Who is the head coach of Australia?
Tony Popovic is the head coach of Australia. - Which team has won the most recent meetings?
Japan has won four of their last five meetings with Australia. - What is Japan’s current form in the qualifiers?
Japan has won all seven of their matches, scoring 28 goals and conceding none. - What is Australia’s form in the qualifiers?
Australia has won five of their seven matches, scoring 17 goals and conceding only two. - Who are the key players for Japan?
Hidemasa Morita and Takumi Minamino are among Japan’s key players. - Who are the key players for Australia?
Craig Goodwin and Jackson Irvine are key players for Australia. - What is the prediction for Japan vs Australia?
The prediction for the match is a 2-1 victory for Japan.
Where to Watch Japan vs Australia Live?
| Country | Where to Watch |
|---|---|
| UK | OneFootball |
| USA | beIN Sports |
| India | Fancode |
| Japan | DAZN |
| Australia | Paramount+ |
| Nigeria | SuperSport |
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By focusing on the AFC World Cup Qualifiers and emphasizing the strength and form of both teams, this article provides fans with valuable insights into the much-anticipated clash between Japan and Australia. With Japan’s perfect record and Australia’s consistent performance, this match is poised to be a thrilling encounter.
