The story goes that the Socceroos can't beat Japan in Saitama.

And they have to overcome more than just history if they want to start their World Cup qualifying campaign.

Japan have won 20 of their last 22 games, including all three qualifying games so far, and have scored 14 goals in those three victories.

Australia have never beaten the Samurai Blue in Japan and last claimed a complete stoppage win at the MCG in 2009.

But fresh from the win over China in Adelaide, there is renewed confidence in the Socceroos camp.

“We always believe we can do it,” said midfielder Jackson Irvine.

“That’s one of the foundations of this team, the belief in each other and the abilities we have, especially in the most difficult moments.”

“And this is a tough moment – ​​we are playing probably one of the most in-form teams in world football, let alone Asian football, with players around the world playing at their best and we know we have to do our best.

“We are at the start of something new, but there were already signs the other day that we can be a really difficult team if we get it right.”

Irvine, who wore the captain's armband against China after goalkeeper Maty Ryan was substituted for Joe Gauci, will play a crucial role.

The elimination of Liverpool star Wataru Endo and midfield partner Hidemasa Morita will be crucial to the outcome of the game.

“Of course Wataru is one of the best midfielders, but I think even you would say that Morita is probably the more in-form player at the moment, with the goals he has already scored this season and the level they are playing at.” Irvine said.

“Even for me, it might be a big individual test to play against players like that – but again, it’s nothing we haven’t done and mastered in the past.”

“So these are the moments when you have to face the biggest challenges and show what you are capable of.”

Irvine is also careful not to show too much respect.

“You have to be perfect. It has to be you,” he said.

“They have so many different ways to score goals. They have individual quality, they are good in transition, they have speed, they have creativity.”

“But we also have all these things.

“If you just try to defend them, that's not the way this team wants to play – and I don't think you're going to get a result like that against a team like this.”

“You have to be brave with the ball and trust that we have enough quality to do them damage too.”

Even a draw would be a sensational result, while a win would be one of Australia's best efforts ever – and three points would be huge for their hopes of direct qualification.

“We’re not too worried about the bigger picture at this moment,” he said.

“But I think the momentum that it could bring, creating a bit of history, starting something new, doing something that's never been done before, would be a great way to kickstart that and get everyone feeling that way that we are moving in the right direction.

AAP