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Japan vs Australia Team News - Who will line up for Socceroos in crucial World Cup qualifier?

andrew-hendrie
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Last updated: 15 Oct 2024
Andrew Hendrie 15 Oct 2024
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  • Japan vs Australia team news for Tuesday's World Cup qualifier
  • McGree and Bos strong chance to start after impressive performances off the bench vs China
  • Japan not expected to make many changes from team that beat Saudi Arabia
Nishan Velupillay and Riley McGree of the Socceroos
Nishan Velupillay and Riley McGree of the Socceroos (Photo by Getty Images)


Japan vs Australia Team News


The Socceroos have a tough assignment ahead of them as they prepare to face Group C leaders Japan in World Cup qualifying on Tuesday night in Saitama.

Japan are flying high at the top of Group C and haven't conceded in their last seven games in all competitions, scoring 28 unanswered goals themselves.

Without a win against the Blue Samarai since 2009, can the Socceroos spring an almighty upset on the road?


Australia Team News & Line-Up


It's believed Riley McGree is a strong chance to come into the starting side after his impressive cameo off the bench in last week's 3-1 victory over China.

McGree, who plays his club football with Middlesbrough, was a walk-up starter for Australia before his recent battles with injury, so he's a chance to replace Nestory Irankunda, who struggled in a more central role against China.

Jordan Bos was also highly involved down the left flank for the Socceroos last week and could force his way into the starting 11 against Japan.

Mitch Duke plays his club football in Japan and will likely retain his place as striker, despite Apostolos Stamatelopoulos' presence on the bench.

However, Stamatelopoulos scored in his most recent appearance for Scottish Premier League side Motherwell and would count himself unlucky not to receive any game time in the two qualifiers.

Sam Silvera is also available for selection again after missing last week through suspension, while Mat Ryan is a chance to replace Joe Gauci in goals.

Japan Team News & Line-Ups


No reason for Japan to switch anything up too drastically ahead of this clash considering their sustained dominant form.

Defender Kota Takai remains injured, while Takumi Minamino was substituted at half-time of Japan's 2-0 win over Saudi Arabia last week.

It's unclear if Minamino was injured or if it was simply a tactical change, but Takefusa Kubo could be an option to come into the starting side.

Koki Ogawa also put his hand up for a start after coming off the bench to score the second goal against Saudi Arabia.

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