The Socceroos will round off their preparations for January's Asian Cup with a friendly on November 18 against arch-rivals Japan, the same team many are expecting they will face in the final of the tournament itself.

The match will take place at Osaka's 47,000-seat Nagai Stadium, part-time home of J-League club Cerezo Osaka and a venue used three times during the 2002 World Cup.

Belgium's Divock Origi is watched by Socceroos Alex Wilkinson and Mile Jedinak during a friendly last week. Credit:Getty Images

While the choice of opponent will raise eyebrows, given it could help Japan to acquaint themselves with Australia's new generation of players, Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou believes it provides a telling opportunity to gauge Australia's progress before the tournament starts.

"I'm delighted we have been able to secure a match against Japan in November to finalise our preparations for the Asian Cup," Postecoglou said. "Our aim is to become the best football nation in Asia and Japan is one of nations we will have to overcome to achieve that goal.