Cameron Burgess started but scored an own goal for Australia as the Socceroos drew 1-1 with Japan in a World Cup qualifier in Saitama.

The Town defender turned Keito Nakamura’s pacey ball into his own net on 76 minutes after Australia had led gone into a surprise lead through another own goal from Shogo Taniguchi.

Burgess otherwise defended well and completed the full 90 minutes, picking up a booking in the dying moments for a foul on Brighton and Hove Albion’s Kaoru Mitoma.

The result leaves the Socceroos five points behind group leaders Japan after four of the 10 matches, with the top two qualifying directly for the final tournament in 2026.

Burgess, who has featured only in the Blues’ Carabao Cup tie with AFC Wimbledon in August, was winning his 11th senior cap and first under new head coach Tony Popovic having been an unused substitute in the 3-1 victory over China on Thursday.

The 28-year-old was due to be joined by Town teammate Massimo Luongo, who came out of international retirement. However, the midfielder was forced to withdraw with an ankle injury.

Photo: Reuters

Pessimistic added 15:45 - Oct 15 I feel sorry for Massimo. He should be used more in the Prem because not only does he work very well with Sam Morsy, he is a year younger and would not have considered playing for Australia again if he was getting enough minutes on the pitch with Ipswich.
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Nutkins_Return added 16:27 - Oct 15 On what basis should he be used more? Love Mass but he'll play on merit like everyone else. Phillips and Cajuste have outstanding pedigree and are quality players. Taylor has also done well. Really don't see the issue and glad that Mass can get some minutes for his country again.
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TimmyH added 18:33 - Oct 15 I think it's the only goal our International players have scored in these Internationals and it's an OG! :(
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DocMartyn added 11:34 - Oct 16 @TimmyH Hutch to the rescue! :)
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Linkboy13 added 17:10 - Oct 16 Luv Massimo but he's not up to Premier league level maybe couple of years ago.
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