World Cup Qualification 2026: Australia-Japan, the likely lineups

The ninth day of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, which will be played between Canada, Mexico and the United States, features a high-stakes confrontation in Group C: In Perth, second-ranked Australia hosts top-ranked Japan, which has so far been on a flawless path under Hajime Moriyasu. The kickoff whistle is set for Thursday, June 5, at 1:10 p.m. Italian time.

The Socceroos’ head coach Tony Popovic confirms the proven tactical set-up. In front of goalkeeper Ryan will act Circati (Parma), Burgess and Degenek. On the flanks there will be room for the thrust of Miller and Behic, while in the middle of the field it will be Teague and O’Neill who will filter and set up. On the three-quarter, Caceres and Boyle will have the task of triggering the only forward, Borrello.

Moriyasu responds with a 3-4-2-1. Between the posts there is room for Suzuki (Parma), protected by the defensive line composed of Takai, Seko and Watanabe. In midfield, from right to left, Sekine, Fujita, Endo and Nakamura should start from the 1st. In a more advanced position, in the three-quarter, two prized pieces of Japanese soccer will act: Kamada, former Lazio, and Kubo. The point of reference in attack will be Sano, ready to concretize the Blue Samurai’s offensive play.

Probable lineups

Australia (3-4-2-1): Ryan; Circati, Burgess, Degenek; Miller, Teague, O’Neille, Behic; Caceres, Boyle; Borrello. Ct: Popovic.

Japan (3-4-2-1): Suzuki; Takai, Seko, Watanabe; Sekine, Fujita, Endo, Nakamura; Kubo, Kamada; Sano. Ct: Moriyasu.