Herve Renard, in his second stint as head coach, was pleased with how Saudi Arabia dealt with the pressure in their 1-0 win over China PR on Thursday.

 

The victory kept them a point behind Australia in the standings and Renard knows it will be another pressure-cooker atmosphere for his players at the Saitama Stadium 2002 on Tuesday.

 

"We know what is at stake and we must be able to put away our chances as Japan will be tough opponents," said Renard.

With qualification sealed with three matches to spare, Hajime Moriyasu may opt to rest his regulars, but this will not necessarily mean a respite for Saudi Arabia.

 

The battle to be in the final squad for next year's global showpiece has kicked off and Japan's fringe players will be determined to use whatever opportunities that come their way to boost their chances of heading to the Finals.

Venue: Saitama Stadium 2002 (Saitama)

Kick-off: Tuesday, 19:35 (UTC+9)