Australia’s Heartbreaking Exit from World Cup Despite Inspiring Comeback Victory Against Japan

Prior to matchday three, Australia found themselves at the bottom of the Group B standings, having managed only one point from their previous two matches—a 1-1 draw against Vietnam and a 2-0 defeat to the United Arab Emirates.

The Joeys were tantalisingly close to securing an unlikely knockout stage berth, with Vietnam leading the UAE 1-0 in the other Group B fixture. However, a late goal in the 88th minute from the UAE saw Australia slip from second to third place in the group, and their elimination was confirmed following the calculation of head-to-head results, goal difference, and goal tallies.

With their exit from the Under-17 Asian Cup, the Joeys have also forfeited their chance to compete at the Under-17 World Cup, which is set to take place in November 2025.

The comeback against Japan was fuelled by goals from Miles Milliner of Manly United, Max Anastasio from Venezia FC, and Alexander Garbowski, a defender for BK Häcken.

In the match, the Joeys featured Central Coast Mariners players Jai Ajanovic, Logan Sambrook, and Haine Eames, alongside Western United defender Besian Kutleshi, Brisbane Roar duo Rhys Williams and Charlie Parkin, Adelaide United forward Amlani Tatu, and Sydney FC’s Jay Maltz. Additionally, substitutes included Kade Baccus, Akol Akon, and Thomas Cutuk from Western Sydney Wanderers, along with Brisbane Roar’s Quinn MacNicol and Perth Glory’s Christian Pullella, all contributing to the thrilling 3-2 victory.