While reminiscent of a group-stage defeat at the last World Cup, a 1-1 home draw against Australia in 2026 qualifying provided a fair reflection of Japan’s progress since. After making a perfect start with three straight wins and clean sheets in their Asia final-round qualifying for the next World Cup, the Samurai Blue were the favorites against the Socceroos, whose setup suggested they knew their task ahead, especially in just their second game under a new manager. After firing on all cylinders until Tuesday’s game, Japan struggled to unlock the visitors’ block of five defenders and four midf…