The final match of Group C decides who will secure the final automatic qualification place for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Australia are in the box seat as they travel to the Middle East to take on Saudi Arabia, and Jack Tobin has you covered with his full preview below!
Saudi Arabia vs Australia World Cup Qualifiers Preview & Betting Tips
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Wednesday 11th June, 4:15am AEST
What's at Stake?
Thanks to Aziz Behich’s stoppage time winner against Japan, all the Socceroos need to do to finish in second place in Group C is avoid a five goal defeat. Finishing in second place secures a spot in the World Cup, while finishing third or fourth in the group will mean a trip to the fourth round of qualifying. With Saudi Arabia needing a 5+ goal win, expect the hosts to pull out all the stops to make this away game a living hell for the Australians.
Australia Keep Finding a Way
Australia lost the shot count 13-6 and had only 31% possession against Japan, but once again under Tony Popovic, the Socceroos found a way. Australia’s defence was outstanding, conceding just one shot on target despite Japan having a massive amount of possession and territory. Japan have been utterly dominant in this World Cup qualifying cycle, with Australia the only team to beat them through nine games, and held the Group leaders goalless for the second time in nine games. Australia have conceded only six goals in seven games since Tony Popovic took over as manager, and are yet to lose a game.
One Last Roll of the Dice
Australia’s last second win over Japan has made Saudi Arabia’s bid for automatic qualification near impossible. The Saudi Arabians are yet to score more than two goals in a game in Group C, but will need to score at least five on Wednesday morning to overtake the Socceroos. Saudi Arabia have a 3-4-2 record in Group C, and have only scored six goals in nine games, which doesn’t spark much optimism for the home side. Temperatures are expected to be nearing 40 degrees which will favour the hosts in front of a ravenous crowd. Can they make the most of the advantages they will have?
Saudi Arabia vs Australia Prediction
It’s safe to say that the two teams will be in vastly different mindsets, with the Socceroos playing a heavily defensive brand, while Saudi Arabia will be all out guns blazing in attack. The big difference is, Australia are a great defensive team and Saudi Arabia are not a great attacking team. Saudi Arabia should win this game given Australia will simply be trying to not lose by five goals, but Australia will certainly be securing second place in Group C.
Saudi Arabia to Win
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