Australia secured their fifth straight appearance at the World Cup finals by beating Peru on penalties in their qualifying play-off in Qatar.
Goalkeeper Andrew Redmayne was the Socceroos’ hero, saving Alex Valera’s spot-kick to clinch a 5-4 victory for his side after being introduced as a substitute at the end of a goalless 120 minutes in Al Rayyan.
Australia’s Martin Boyle saw his opening penalty saved, but Peru’s Luis Advincula hit a post with his and, with the other nine all converted, Redmayne’s save from Valera’s effort proved decisive.
In a tense, finely balanced encounter, scoring chances were few and far between before Australia twice went closest to breaking the deadlock in the final five minutes of normal time.
Wing-back Aziz Behic’s shot from the edge of the area curled inches wide and three minutes later Ajdin Hrustic’s low first-time attempt was well saved by Pedro Gallese.
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Peru enjoyed their best spell at the start of the second period of extra time when Christian Cueva’s shot flashed wide before Edison Flores’ header hit a post with Australia goalkeeper Matty Ryan well beaten.
Australia will join defending champions France, Denmark and Tunisia in Group D at the 2022 finals.
The final World Cup place will be decided on Tuesday, when New Zealand play Costa Rica at the same venue.