Japan needed an own goal to help grab a point in a disappointing World Cup qualifying display against Qatar at home overnight. The result leaves the Japanese two points adrift of Australia ahead of their clash in Melbourne next Wednesday evening, the final match of Group 1 qualifying.

Whilst Japan, like Australia, has already qualified for the finals, the clash against Qatar presented as an ideal opportunity to draw level with Australia at the top of the group and enhance it's chances of finishing top.

Qatar's Ahmed Al-Fariz gave the home side the perfect start, putting the ball into the back of his net in the 2nd minute of play.

However a penalty converted by Ali Afif in the 53rd minute clinched the point for Qatar, who have now completed their World Cup commitments.

Japan now need to defeat Australia in Melbourne next week to finish top of Group 1.