Socceroos prove hard to beat as quest to reach 2026 World Cup goes down to the wire | Joey Lynch
Briefly

The article highlights Australia’s precarious position in the World Cup qualification phase following mixed results. Despite a strong showing with a 5-1 win against Indonesia and a 2-0 win over China, Japan’s failure to score against Saudi Arabia keeps the Socceroos' hopes alive. Currently second in Group C with 13 points, Australia is three points ahead of Saudi Arabia. They cannot drop to the bottom two slots, securing at least a continuation of their qualifying journey, awaiting crucial matches in June that will determine their fate.
Japan's dominant possession against Saudi Arabia showcased their attacking intent with 78% of the ball, but despite this, they failed to convert opportunities into goals.
The Socceroos, currently sitting second in Group C, are three points clear of Saudi Arabia, meaning their qualification hopes will be determined in the final rounds.
Australia's fortunes in World Cup qualifying have fluctuated significantly, now trailing Japan who has a comfortable grip atop the group—leading to intense pressure in upcoming matches.
Even with some setbacks, Australia remains secure from elimination in the qualifying rounds, with their minimum outcome forcing them into further qualification challenges.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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