Australia hosts Japan, suffers starter Shin Guan's diagnosis ahead of key game
BEIJING, March 16 - This coming March 24, at 17:10, Australia will welcome a key matchup in the Round of 12 against a strong Japan team on their home turf. Australia currently sits in third place in Group B with a slim three-point deficit, just three points behind second-placed Japan. The matchup will be crucial for a team hell-bent on advancing straight into the tournament.
World Cup
The final round is crucial for Australia as they must win to keep the possibility of finishing in the top two alive.
However, on the eve of the match, the Australian team suffered a misfortune. According to the Australian media "FTBL" reported that the Australian international footballer Muy, who plays for Shanghai Harbour, has been diagnosed with the new coronavirus and is currently undergoing tests in Scotland.
The media report said, "Coming up against their final two opponents in the Round of 12 - Japan and Saudi Arabia - Australia have been hit hard, with central midfielder Mooi diagnosed with a new crown and almost certain to miss both matches. Muay has played 49 matches for the Australian national team so far and is an indispensable player for the team. His absence will undoubtedly pose a huge challenge for the team against Japan and Saudi Arabia, and the milestone of his 50th national team game, which he was due to play, has been forced to be postponed as a result."
