Wright faces October play-off

Having clinched maximum points over Thailand in Melbourne, Ange Postecoglou’s side required Japan to beat or draw with Saudi Arabia to secure the Socceroos’ automatic qualification for the summer tournament.

However, the Saudis secured a narrow 1-0 victory, meaning Australia will now face a two-legged play-off against Syria in October.

The winning side will then progress to a play-off doubleheader against the fourth best side in the CONCACAF group, with the victors securing their place in Russia.