It was another head-scratching performance from Tony Popovic’s team as the Socceroos try to claw their way into the 2026 World Cup.
Kusini Yengi scored after just 38 seconds - and then deep into added time to salvage a 2-2 draw for Australia in Riffa on Wednesday morning (AEDT).
Australia’s next opponents are arguably world leaders in time-wasting and gamesmanship – and defender Harry Souttar says the Socceroos can’t get sucked in like they did last time they met.
Jason Geria watched Australia’s disaster-class against Bahrain on television two months ago,thinking he’d never get a chance to play for them in the rematch.
Thursday night’s 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia wasn’t great for the Socceroos. It also wasn’t a total disaster. But it was very nearly both of those things.
Tony Popovic’s side will rue their missed chances against Saudi Arabia in their crucial World Cup qualifier at Melbourne’s AAMI Park.
Five things we learnt from Tony Popovic’s first two fixtures in charge of Australia,as the national team stays in the hunt for direct World Cup qualification.
The draw against the Samurai Blue completes an encouraging first window in charge for Tony Popovic,who has steered Australia’s World Cup qualification campaign back on track.
Tony Popovic’s Australia are out to defy history and build momentum against the Samurai Blue.
A change in club has proved the world of difference for the Australian defender.
Craig Goodwin has a fair claim as Australia’s most under-appreciated sporting talent. On Thursday night,and not for the first time,he came to his nation’s rescue.