Japan’s senior football team, became the first team to book their place in next year’s World Cup in Brazil, after a 1-1 draw against Australia today.
Tommy Oar gave Australia a fortuitous lead in the 82nd minute, against the run of play, after the Japanese failed to find the back of the net despite having chance and chance.
Deep into injury time, Matthew McKay handled Keisuke Honda’s cross and the referee pointed to the spot. The CSKA Moscow player stepped up and drilled his penalty past Mark Schwarzer.
The draw ensured that Japan went seven points clear and uncatchable in Group B. It is their fifth straight World Cup, since they made their first appearance in 1998.
Australia will now battle with Oman, Jordan and Iraq for the second automatic qualifying place. The third-placed team will go into a play-off.
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