Those putting on bets through Centrebet with almost a week still to go before the big clash are getting behind the home side.

Centrebet media chief Neil Evans said the early wave of money had been for the Japanese at home at $2.50 with Australia a $2.65 outsider. The draw is quoted at $3.10.

Evans said: "I expect the Socceroos, with so much conjecture over their starting
line-up, to ease in the market, with Japan and the draw firming up."

Next week's match in Japan will go some way to deciding whether Australia make it to South Africa 2010 but the Socceroos are also hoping that the world's biggest football event comes to these shores in 2018.

Despite Football Federation Australia's intent to put together a strong bid, the money so far is not going on Australia.

Australia are currently at $8 (along with Russia) to land the tournament with England the favourites at $2.50. Indonesia's bid doesn't seem to be given much hope of success with a current price of $41.

Punters are also looking ahead to the start of the 2009 Asian Champions League campaign next month and assessing how the two Australian sides might go. 

The early outright favourites are Japanese club Kashima Antlers at $5.50. Gamaba Osaka are currently $7.50 with  Central Coast Mariners $15 and Newcastle Jets further back at $26.