Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the 2026 World Cup Qualifier match.
Following the continuation of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers in October, Japan and Australia have positioned themselves at the top of Group C. Notably, there is a five-point gap between the two teams, highlighting how Japan outclass all other competitors and chasers in the sextet.
Japan
Since the beginning of last month, Japan have secured three consecutive victories with a total score of 15:0. Last Thursday, away against Saudi Arabia, they had numerous successes in attack: Daichi Kamada scored early, while substitutes Koki Ogawa and Junya Ito sealed the win late on (2:0). It's clear that the coaching staff will stick with their winning formula, which highly values the pressing work of forward Ayase Ueda—supported by wings Kaoru Mitoma and Ritsu Doan joining the attack from deep positions.
Australia
As for Australia, September was a month where they failed to find the back of the net. After a loss to Bahrain (0:1) and a draw with Indonesia (0:0), the situation was not dire for them, yet the victory over China (3:1) should have been more convincing. The team were trailing for 25 minutes, and throughout the match, they managed only four shots on target. Introducing Bayern Munich's talent Nestory Irankunda into the starting lineup yielded no dividends; the winger underperformed in the first half and was substituted at halftime.
Japan vs Australia Prediction
Over the last 10 years, Japan have defeated Australia four times in five encounters, scoring at least two goals in each victory. In Saitama, the hosts are expected to make a significant impact once again.
