The competition between the Saudi national team and its Australian counterpart intensifies for the second direct qualification spot for the 2026 World Cup, within the third group of the Asian qualifiers. The Green team occupies the third position with 10 points, while Australia is in second place with 13 points, with two matches remaining for each team before determining the qualifiers.

The Japanese national team has successfully secured early qualification after topping the group, leaving the second spot open between Saudi Arabia and Australia. Football fans are eagerly awaiting the matches of the ninth round, where the Green team faces Bahrain, while Australia plays a tough match against Japan.

If Saudi Arabia wins against Bahrain and Australia loses to Japan, both teams will be equal at 13 points, making their final encounter decisive. This match will be crucial in determining the direct qualifier, according to the Asian Football Confederation's criteria.

If the final match ends in a draw, the Asian Football Confederation's criteria will be applied, which include goal difference, number of goals scored, then results of direct encounters, and finally the fair play criterion based on the number of cards each team has received.