Murphy’s last-gasp header saves Australia, qualify for final four with 1-1 draw

Augustine Murphy’s stoppage-time goal has rescued Australia in a 1-1 draw with Japan, qualifying them from Group A at the Asia-Oceania Cup.

Murphy nodded from a pinpoint Alessandro La Verghetta cross just as hope seemed lost, creating a concoction of jubilation and relief on the Australian bench.

Tetsuya Toda had given Japan the lead late in the first half from a great free-kick, which had his country on course to qualify. The Japan skipper led from the back in the game, and along with the rest of his team, showed his exasperation at the final whistle.


Australia will take on Iran in the semi-final, while Japan will play for fifth place.