Australia Strengthens World Cup Bid as Saudi Arabia Keeps Hopes Alive
Australia's 2-0 win over China secures second place in Group C, while Saudi Arabia's draw with Japan leaves the qualification race unresolved ahead of June's decisive matches.
- Australia defeated China 2-0 in Hangzhou, with goals from Jackson Irvine and Nishan Velupillay, solidifying their hold on second place in Group C with 13 points.
- Saudi Arabia held already-qualified Japan to a 0-0 draw in Saitama, keeping their automatic qualification hopes alive as they remain three points behind Australia.
- South Korea drew 1-1 with Jordan in Group B, maintaining their lead but leaving their qualification undecided with two matches remaining.
- Indonesia moved into fourth place in Group C with a 1-0 victory over Bahrain, improving their chances of advancing to further qualification rounds.
- The final qualification matches in June will see Australia face Japan and Saudi Arabia, with the latter match likely determining the second automatic spot from Group C.
ESPN 
The Guardian 
CNA 
South China Morning Post 
Australian Broadcasting Corporation 
Al Jazeera 
