In a dramatic turn of events during the AFC U17 Asian Cup 2025, the U-17 Japan national team faced off against the U-17 Australia national team on April 10, 2025, in what was the final match of Group B. Despite Japan's initial lead, the match ended in a 2-3 loss. However, the team secured a spot in the upcoming FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar due to favorable results in other matches.
The match took place at the Okaz Stadium in Saudi Arabia, where Japan, needing at least a draw to guarantee advancement, started strong. In the 7th minute, Japan took the lead through a stunning direct volley from Akito Fujita, who capitalized on a corner kick taken by Taiga Kanda. The shot, which caught the Australian goalkeeper off guard, found the back of the net, giving Japan an early advantage.
However, the momentum shifted in the second half. Australia equalized in the 51st minute with a header from Miles Miner following a corner kick, bringing the score to 1-1. The match saw Australia ramp up their pressure, and they took the lead with goals from Max Anastasio in the 71st minute and Aleksandar Galic-Bouskic just three minutes later, pushing the score to 3-1.
Japan, determined not to go down without a fight, made several substitutions looking to regain control. Their efforts paid off in the 86th minute when Daichi Tani scored, narrowing the deficit to 2-3. Despite a valiant effort to find an equalizer in the dying moments of the match, Japan could not convert any further chances, ultimately succumbing to the defeat.
As the final whistle blew, Japan's fate rested in the hands of the ongoing match between UAE and Vietnam. In a twist of fate, the UAE managed to secure a 1-1 draw against Vietnam, which meant that Japan, Australia, and UAE all finished the group stage with 4 points each. However, Japan's superior goal difference—thanks to their earlier 4-1 victory over UAE—ensured that they topped Group B.
"It was a tough match, and while we are disappointed with the loss, we are relieved that we still qualified for the World Cup," said head coach Hirofuyu Mori after the match. "The team showed resilience, and we will take this experience into the quarter-finals against Saudi Arabia on April 13."
Japan's journey in the tournament has been a rollercoaster. They started with a convincing 4-1 win against UAE, followed by a 1-1 draw against Vietnam, setting the stage for a crucial final match against Australia. The team had to make adjustments, changing four starters from the previous match against Vietnam, including introducing goalkeeper Hideshi Muramatsu for his first appearance in the tournament.
The match against Australia was not only crucial for Japan's advancement but also showcased the competitive spirit of youth football in Asia. With the U-17 World Cup expanding to 48 teams, Japan aims to build on their previous successes and secure their place among the elite in youth football.
As they prepare for their quarter-final match against Saudi Arabia, the team is focused on refining their strategies and learning from their experiences in the group stage. The upcoming clash promises to be an exciting encounter, as Japan aims to continue their quest for glory on the world stage.
In conclusion, the U-17 Japan national team may have stumbled against Australia, but their path to the FIFA U-17 World Cup is now clear. With a blend of determination and skill, they look forward to their next challenge, ready to showcase their talent on an even bigger stage.
