Japan are in a comparatively more comfortable position with four points earned from their first two matches and only need to avoid defeat against Australia to seal their place in the quarter-finals.
Despite a spot at the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 also at stake, Japan head coach Nozomi Hiroyama will not approach the tie any differently from their earlier matches despite the advantage at hand.
“As for the next game, since it’s a knockout match, there’s no doubt that there’s a big opportunity,” said Hiroyama.
“If we can go into the match in good physical and mental condition, like we did in the previous two games, I believe we’ll have a great chance.”
#AFCU17 | Group B: Vietnam 1-1 Japan
Australia are in a precarious position after one draw and one defeat from their matches against Vietnam and the United Arab Emirates, sitting bottom of the group.
A win against Japan will not be enough for Australia to advance, they also need the result between UAE and Vietnam to go in their favour with head coach Brad Maloney believing his players are capable of rising to the challenge.
#AFCU17 | Group B: UAE 2-0 Australia
“We know it’s gonna be a tough opponent and it will be a tough match, but we will be up for the challenge,” said Maloney.
“I’ve got great belief in the players and they have the belief in themselves to take on anyone in the world.”
Japan v Australia
Venue: Okaz Stadium (Taif)
Kick-off: Thursday, 18:00 (UTC+3)
