KUALA LUMPUR: They may not have reached the final but there is plenty to play for as Japan take on Australia in the third-place play-off of the AFC Under-19 Women's Championship at Kuala Lumpur Cheras Stadium on Tuesday.

The prize for the winners is a place in the world finals this August in Russia and both teams will be eager to make up for the disappointment of semi-final defeats.

Japan and Australia finished top of their respective groups with three straight wins but failed to continue their good form in the semis.

Japan, who had tough group victories over DPR Korea and Korea Republic, were beaten in a penalty shootout by China PR while Australia lost 4-2 to DPR Korea in their semi-final.

"There are four strong teams in this competition and only three go through to the world finals and I hope we are one of them," said Australian coach Alistair Edwards.

"Japan have proven themselves and it's going to be a tough match but our players will be ready for the challenge."

Japanese coach Morinao Imaizumi was downcast after his side lost 5-3 to China in a penalty shootout after the teams finished 1-1 over 90 minutes and then extra time.

He said it would not be difficult to lift his players after such a heart-breaking loss.

"I believe in my players," said Imaizumi. "We tried our best against China but were not able to make the most of our chances.

"We will recover from this and try our best to win against Australia."

The winners of the third-place play-off will join China PR and DPR Korea in the world finals in Russia.