3 days ago
First World Cup ever! Uzbekistan clinches spot; Australia in, too
Uzbekistan has qualified for its first ever World Cup appearance, capturing one of the spots reserved for Asian countries for next year's tournament to be held in North a scoreless draw against the United Arab Emirates on Thursday, Uzbekistan picked up the point required to secure progress.
As for Australia, a 1-0 win over Japan in Perth put the Socceroos into a sixth straight World Cup appearance.
The already-qualified Japan fielded an experimental XI with only Daichi Kamada and Koki Machida having made more than four international appearances, but still had the majority of possession and chances.
Substitute Takefusa Kubo had perhaps the best opportunity with 10 minutes remaining, but the midfielder shot wide of the post from inside the area.
In the 90th minute, Riley McGree broke free down the right and pulled back for Behich to curl home to bring Perth Stadium to its feet and give Australia its first win over Japan in 16 years.
Uzbekistan and Australia now join Iran and Japan as teams from the AFC (Asian Football Confederation) to reach the World Cup.
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