Japan v Australia: 2026 World Cup qualifier – live

Socceroos face Samurai Blue at Saitama StadiumKick off in Tokyo is 7.35pm local/9.35pm AEDTAny thoughts? Get in touch with Rob on emailPaul Williams on Japan’s riseThe foundation for Japan’s modern-day success, with a depth of talent the envy of the continent, is the domestic J League, founded in 1993 and now boasting 60 teams across three divisions – all connected by promotion and relegation. The A-League, by comparison, still has only 13 teams and no prospect of an aligned second division on the horizon. Continue reading...

Japan v Australia: 2026 World Cup qualifier – live
  • Socceroos face Samurai Blue at Saitama Stadium
  • Kick off in Tokyo is 7.35pm local/9.35pm AEDT
  • Any thoughts? Get in touch with Rob on email

Paul Williams on Japan’s rise

The foundation for Japan’s modern-day success, with a depth of talent the envy of the continent, is the domestic J League, founded in 1993 and now boasting 60 teams across three divisions – all connected by promotion and relegation. The A-League, by comparison, still has only 13 teams and no prospect of an aligned second division on the horizon.

Continue reading...