TAGUIG CITY --- Asia’s premier football forces, Australia and Japan, have successfully locked in their places in the Round of 32. However, the Korea Republic’s tournament survival hangs in the balance following a stunning upset loss to South Africa, leaving their fate dependent on the final Round 3 results.
Japan, who have famously reached the Round of 16 in four of the last five World Cup editions, will face another massive uphill battle when they clash with five-time champions and Group C winners Brazil on Monday (Tuesday, Philippine time) in Houston.
In their final group fixture against Sweden, Daizen Maeda netted a solo goal for the Samurai Blue in the 56th minute, but Anthony Elanga equalized in the 62nd minute. The 1-1 draw meant Japan finished their Group F campaign undefeated with one win and two draws, safely advancing as the group runners-up.
Group F winners, the Netherlands, are now set to face the Atlas Lions of Morocco.
Australia also punched their ticket to the Round of 32 following a goalless draw against Paraguay. The Socceroos are slated to face the runners-up of Group G, a spot still being contested by Iran, Egypt, and Belgium.
Team Melli will look to defeat Egypt in their final group stage duel to seal their knockout spot, which would mark their best-ever World Cup finish across seven appearances.
Meanwhile, the Korea Republic’s hopes remain suspended in midair. Finishing the group stage with one win and two losses, the Taeguk Warriors hold a minus-one (-1) goal differential and are currently clinging to one of the final spots in the best third-placed teams ranking.
With Croatia, Cape Verde, Belgium, and DR Congo breathing down their necks, South Korea will need results in the remaining fixtures to go their way if they are to advance to the Round of 32.
