Japan boss Hajime Moriyasu saluted the work ethic epitomised by Celtic's Kyogo Furuhashi after his side snatched a late 2-1 win over Australia in World Cup qualifying.
The Hoops superstar climbed off the bench and his tenacity played a massive role in the winner that reignited his country's hopes of reaching Qatar 2022 automatically.
And the own goal from Aziz Behich also potentially saved Moriyasu's job.
Japan were staring at a qualification abyss with minutes to go, having led through Ao Tanaka before the Socceroos - also featuring Tom Rogic - struck back through Ajdin Hrustic's free-kick.
A draw would have been disastrous, leaving Japan five points off Saudi Arabia in the second and final qualification spot having played a game more and Moriyasu's side would have have a massive uphill battle to claw their way out of a play-off spot.
Instead they remain three points behind and within touching distance of both the Saudis and Socceroos after Kyogo pressured Behich into prodding the ball into his own net following Takuma Asano's chip.
Moriyasu was caught on camera in tears during the national anthems ahead of what could have been his final game had things not gone to plan.
And the boss said: "Every time I sing the national anthem, I feel excited and proud.
"I am also proud to lead the team to play at home in Japan today. I have seen many national flags and felt the support of many people.
"When singing the national anthem, my eyes filled with tears.
"Today’s game was very stressful and difficult, but the players and staff worked together and made full preparations. I think the players have already practiced how to seize the opportunity."
"We kept fighting until the end and never gave up - we are determined to get to the World Cup and we showed that tonight.
"It was a great win but we still have a lot of tough games to come. We have to make sure we use this win and build on it."
Moriyasu made a special point of applauding fans behind the goal after the full-time whistle.
"I wanted to thank the fans for their support -- they gave the players courage," he said. "It was a very difficult game, but the fact that the players kept going to the end was down to the support they got from the crowd."
