Defeats against Indonesia and Japan in the March fixtures ended Bahrain's hopes of an automatic spot, with the West Asian side going into their tie against Saudi Arabia on six points.

 

They sit three point behind Indonesia, with the third and fourth-place teams to advance to the playoffs which offer an additional two spots to the global showpiece.

 

While their fate is no longer in their hands, Bahrain will be determined to remain in the race for as long as they can as they look to make up for their March defeats.

With Japan having already confirmed their spot in next year's Finals, Saudi Arabia are in a two-horse race with Australia - with the Socceroos in prime position to advance automatically.

 

That, however, could change if Australia fail to beat Japan on Thursday as a win for Saudi Arabia against Bahrain will mean the two will face off in a winner-takes-all showdown on Tuesday.

Venue: Bahrain National Stadium (Riffa)

Kick-off: 19:00 (UTC+3)