Japan face their biggest challenge in the AFC World Cup Qualifiers so far as they take on Australia at Saitama Stadium on Tuesday, October 15.
Japan has been in exceptional form, winning all their matches in the qualifiers so far without conceding a single goal. They are coming into this fixture with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Saudi Arabia.
Australia, meanwhile, has had a mixed campaign. After a surprising 1-0 loss to Bahrain and a goalless draw against Indonesia, they bounced back with a 3-1 win over China. This match will be a big test for new head coach Tony Popovic, who took over from Graham Arnold last month.
The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match, kickoff times and the latest lineup news.
Japan vs. Australia live stream, TV channel
Here's how to watch this AFC World Cup Qualifying match in Australia:
TV channel:
Live stream: Paramount+
This game is not available for TV broadcast in Australia. Streaming options are available on Paramount+.
If this match is not available to watch live in your location or if you’re traveling abroad, you can use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). VPNs offer a secure and private online connection, allowing you to bypass geographical restrictions to access your favourite streaming services from any device anywhere in the world.
WATCH FROM ANYWHERE: Sign up for NordVPN (30-day moneyback guarantee)
What time does Japan vs. Australia kick off?
This AFC World Cup Qualifying clash takes place at the Saitama Stadium in Midori-ku, Saitama, Japan and kicks off on Tuesday, October 15 at 7:35 p.m. local time.
Here's how that time translates across Australia:
| Date | Kickoff time | |
| Australian Eastern Time | Tue, Oct. 15 | 9:35 p.m. |
| Australian Central Time | Tue, Oct. 15 | 9:05 p.m. |
| Australian Western Time | Tue, Oct. 15 | 6:35 p.m. |
Japan vs. Australia lineups, team news
Japan is playing without Takuma Asano, who withdrew from the squad after the recurrence of his hamstring injury. However, Japan hasn't missed the services of the forward as they have been marching strong courtesy of talents like Takefusa Kubo and Takumi Minamino.
Their defense has been impenetrable in the qualifiers. Coach Hajime Moriyasu will likely stick with his successful lineup, aiming to maintain their perfect record.
Japan predicted XI (4-2-3-1, right to left): Suzuki (GK) — Sakai, Itakura, Taniguchi, Nagatomo — Endo, Morita — Minamino, Kamada, Kubo — Ueda.
Injured: Asano
Suspended: None
Australia will be without two key players -- Kusini Yengi and Conor Metcalfe -- due to injuries.
For Australia, all eyes will be on Craig Goodwin, who has rescued the team with crucial goals and assists. The Socceroos’ defense, however, has shown vulnerabilities, and they will need to be at their best to contain Japan’s dynamic attack.
Australia predicted XI (3-4-2-1, right to left): Ryan (GK) — Deng, Souttar, Rowless — Miller, O'Neill, Irvine, Behich — Goodwin, Irankunda — Duke.
Injured: Yengi, Metcalfe
Suspended: None
Japan vs. Australia prediction
Given Japan’s current form and home advantage, they are the favorites to win this match. Australia’s recent struggles and the transition under a new coach may make it difficult for them to secure a positive result.
- Prediction: Japan 2-0 Australia
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