Following a goalless Intercontinental Play-off in Doha, Australia defeated Peru 5-4 on penalties to qualify for the World Cup.
Goalkeeper and captain Mathew Ryan was substituted for Andrew Redmayne by Socceroos boss Graham Arnold ahead of the shoot-out, but the 33-year-old was vindicated when the 33-year-old – who danced on his line for the spot-kicks – saved the deciding penalty from Alex Valera.
Peru, ranked 22nd in the FIFA rankings, went into the game as favorites, but Australia made the early runs, particularly Martin Boyle, who outpaced two Peru defenders on the right in the 23rd minute before his tempting cross eluded everyone.
The second half saw Ricardo Gareca's team improve, although the first chance on target came in the 81st minute from an Ajdin Hrustic free-kick that never troubled Peru goalkeeper Pedro Gallese, who stopped Hrustic two minutes later with a sweeping left-footed save from a low Awer Mabil cross.
In extra time, La Blanquirraja came closest to winning it when substitute Edison Flores soared to earn a header at the far post, but his effort only hit the woodwork, sending the game to penalties.
Both teams missed their first five kicks before Mabil scored and the dancing Redmayne saved Valera to win it for Australia, who will face France, Denmark, and Tunisia in World Cup Group D when they return to Qatar in November.
Ramsey's previous tenure with the club was cut short due to injury, so he may believe he still has unfinished business at the City Ground.
Ramsey's most heartfelt decision would be to return to Cardiff.
The Championship team is credited with putting their hat in the ring for the re-signing of the previous Bluebird.
Ramsey joined Cardiff when he was eight years old and progressed through the ranks to become the club's youngest player ever at the age of sixteen.
After a champion season, he earned a £5 million move to Arsenal, and a return might be on the cards 14 years later.
Ramsey being a free agent and accepting a substantial pay cut would be expected for a move, but it could be the perfect setting for him to make an impact before heading to Qatar.
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