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The crunch Group B clash will end Australia's 763-day wait to host an international fixture, made possible after Football Australia, in collaboration with the Asian Football Confederation, reached an agreement with the New South Wales Government.
Graham Arnold's men have been forced to play the majority of their qualifying campaign abroad in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic and currently sit second through four third-round games, three points adrift of the Green Falcons.
The gap between the two sides - not to mention the resurgence of Japan - only amplifies the importance of their upcoming encounter, and having a stadium full of Australians is exactly what Arnold hopes will help get the job done on November 11.
“I believe that playing in front of home fans at a beautiful stadium and on a great pitch will help us,” Arnold said.
“Fans can provide energy to players and teams, and after having been away from Australia for so long, I expect that our players will harness and utilise the support that will be in Western Sydney Stadium on November 11.
“We appreciate and recognise the role that many stakeholders, primarily the NSW Government, have played in ensuring that this match could be played in Australia, and now I urge the players, together with the fans, to enjoy the moment and feed off one another’s energy as together we strive to take another positive step towards qualification for Qatar.”
Football Australia chief executive officer James Johnson echoed Arnold's sentiments, before acknowledging the opportunity for fans to witness several new Socceroos in the flesh.
"The Socceroos have a great record when playing FIFA World Cup qualifiers on Australian soil and we’re delighted that the team will have the opportunity to return to Australia to continue their FIFA World Cup quest in front of Australian fans," Johnson said.
"It will also be a chance for the Australian public to witness some exciting new national team talent, including players like Ajdin Hrustic, Martin Boyle, and Harry Souttar who have been making great contributions to the squad throughout 2021.
“We thank the NSW Government for working closely with us to bring the Socceroos home in line with their Reopening NSW roadmap."
