Another high-stakes encounter looms for the Socceroos against Saudi Arabia on Thursday night in Melbourne, where their World Cup hopes will again go on the line.

With Japan the standout in Group C, it’s looking like a head-to-head battle between these two nations for the second direct qualification slot for the 2026 World Cup.

He’s back: Herve Renard.Credit: Getty

It’s almost the halfway point of this qualifying stage and Australia and Saudi Arabia are tied on five points; the winner will........

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