Socceroos to play friendly against Romania

Updated January 11, 2013 16:40:23

The Socceroos will play an international friendly against Romania in Spain next month.

It will be the final hit-out for the Socceroos before the 2014 World Cup qualifiers resume.

Australia's next qualification match is against Oman at the Sydney Olympic Stadium on March 26.

Socceroos coach Holger Osieck said the friendly against Romania to be played in Marbella, Spain on February 6 an opportunity to check the progress of many of his squad.

"This is a welcome opportunity to check on the performance of some of our players against Romania who are a very good team and will be a very challenging opponent," said Osieck.

"With the recent matches in the Korea Republic and Hong Kong we have seen some new players added to the group and as a result the competition for places in our group has increased.

"This match will not be just a friendly, but also a good test for the players ahead of our important qualifier against Oman."

The Socceroos are ranked 36 on the FIFA World rankings while Romania are 33rd.

Romania are currently in third position of Group D in their 2014 FIFA World Cup European qualifiers and will also face Poland on February 2 before the Socceroos clash.

Tags: socceroos, soccer, sport, australia, romania, spain

First posted January 11, 2013 15:08:34

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Socceroos run riot to qualify for East Asian Cup

Updated December 10, 2012 07:46:18

Australia needed just over half an hour to secure its East Asian Cup berth with an 8-0 demolition of lowly Taiwan at Hong Kong Stadium on Sunday night.

The top-placed Socceroos will now join Japan, China and hosts South Korea in the showpiece next July.

Adam Taggart, Richard Garcia and Aziz Behich all scored their maiden international goals with Robert Cornthwaite and Aaron Mooy rounding out the scoring for the experimental Socceroos side.

Rookies Taggart and Behich both netted a brace each while Taiwan gifted Australia its eighth with an own goal.

With North Korea beating hosts Hong Kong 4-0 in Sunday's earlier match, Australia knew it needed at least five goals against world number 176 side Taiwan to better the Koreans goal difference of plus 14.

It did not take long for Australia to get off the mark with Melbourne Heart striker Garcia scoring in the 11th minute courtesy of superb lead-up work from Behich.

Scott Jamieson forced a save from Taiwan goal keeper Lu Kun Chi moments later with the rebound falling to Cornthwaite who made no mistake.

Newcastle's teen striker Taggart took advantage of the lacklustre defence to easily score in the 19th minute and put Australia up 3-0.

Taggart found the back of the net again soon after, getting on the end of a Jamieson ball for the 4-0 lead.

Behich secured Australia's East Asian Cup berth with a header in the 33rd minute as Australia went 5-0 up.

Mooy continued the assault right after the break, scoring with a superb free-kick - quickly becoming his specialty - for the 6-0 advantage.

The Taiwan side did their best to halt the humiliation with defenders scrambling at the goal mouth to block a tirade from Emerton, Taggart and Behich.

Behich scored his second in the 56th minute easily getting past Taiwan's hapless defence.

Archie Thompson, who replaced Garcia in the 57th minute, twice came heartbreakingly close to equalling Damian Mori's all-time highest goal scoring record for Australia, stinging the palms of 'keeper Lu and denied by the woodwork moments later.

Adding insult to injury Taiwan supplemented Australia's massive goal haul with an own goal from skipper Yang Cha Hsun 10 minutes before time.

AAP

Tags: socceroos, soccer, sport, hong-kong, australia

First posted December 10, 2012 06:42:13

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Osieck sees Socceroos future for rookies

Updated December 10, 2012 15:58:03

His Hong Kong mission accomplished, Socceroos coach Holger Osieck can turn his full attention to World Cup qualification and says there are players in his successful experimental squad who are certain to feature.

After a slow start, 17 unanswered goals against minnows Guam and Taiwan ensured an Australian team comprised mainly of A-League players easily bettered North Korea's goal difference on Sunday to book a place in next July's East Asian Cup.

There Australia will take on host nation South Korea, heavyweight Japan and defending champion China in a competition which falls outside FIFA's sanctioned international dates.

And while Osieck said he will use that tournament to look again at rising talent, he feels he has already unearthed some rising stars in Hong Kong.

Osieck will have the chance to test those who impressed him the most when Australia play an international friendly against a yet to be announced opponent in February before the next World Cup qualifier against Oman in Sydney in March.

"Absolutely I can see some of these players in the World Cup squad," Osieck said.

"I'm pretty sure that some of them will break through.

"I have another opportunity with an international in February which gives me another good look at some players.

"The game will probably be played in Europe so I'll have a different group there as well.

"So after that I will decide who will be ready for the Oman game."

Eight players earned their first international caps in Hong Kong with Aaron Mooy and Michael Marrone scoring on debut while the likes of Tomas Rogic, Aziz Behich and Eli Babalj also put their hand up for future selection.

"This really was a welcome opportunity to see the performance level of some players," Osieck said.

"But I never single out anybody, not publicly.

"We'll deal with it internally and they'll all get to know what my assessment is."

While Osieck would not play favourites, veteran Archie Thompson did.

The 34-year-old said Central Coast playmaker Rogic, despite only playing a total of 35 minutes in Hong Kong, was his pick of the bunch.

"They all impressed," said Thompson, whose lightning-fast hat-trick against Guam left him one away from Damian Mori's record 29 goals for the Socceroos.

"But I'm always going to say Tommy Rogic because he plays in my position and I just love watching him play.

"His touch is amazing for a big guy and he just seems to have so much time and gets out of tricky situations so easily.

"He's definitely got a bright future."

AAP

Tags: sport, soccer, socceroos, hong-kong, australia

First posted December 10, 2012 15:54:37

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Socceroos held by North Korea

Updated December 06, 2012 13:16:56

Australia's hopes of qualifying for next year's East Asian Cup hang in the balance after drawing 1-1 with North Korea in the tournament's marquee match at Hong Kong Stadium on Wednesday night.

The Socceroos must now attempt to better North Korea's superior goal difference in their final two matches against Guam and Taiwan and hope Hong Kong do not let the Koreans add too many more to their tally when they meet on Friday.

Archie Thompson put Australia in front on the fifth minute but North Korea replied with a goal from J-League star An Yong-Hak in the second half.

Coach Holger Osieck made only one change in the line-up that played hosts Hong Kong, handing Central Coast Mariners goalkeeper Matt Ryan his maiden cap in place of Eugene Galekovic.

Australia began well and a powerful header from Thompson ricocheted off the post and into the net to give it an early lead.

The veteran had clear chances to extend the lead spurning a header from a Brett Emerton cross and, after the break, misfiring after fine work from Aziz Behich.

North Korea increasingly competed on level terms as the game went on and it was no surprise when An eventually levelled in the 65th minute.

Osieck reacted by sending on teen playmaker Tomas Rogic a minute later for Richard Garcia and the Central Coast star had a chance to put Australia in front in the dying minutes forcing a save from North Korea's Ri Myong Guk.

Emerton, who scored the winner in their opening clash against Hong Kong, could have been the saviour again moments later but sent his shot over the crossbar.

Matt McKay got in on the action with a minute left on the clock but just missed the target.

ABC/AAP

Tags: socceroos, soccer, sport, korea-democratic-people-s-republic-of, australia

First posted December 06, 2012 07:05:16

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Emerton wants Socceroos spot back

Updated October 23, 2012 07:37:41

Overlooked Socceroo Brett Emerton wants to use next month's international friendly against South Korea as his springboard back into the national setup.

Emerton also said he felt the friendly was an ideal time to experiment with the line-up and test some new talent with more than five months until Australia's next World Cup qualifying match.

Emerton, who last represented Australia in November last year, said he still harboured ambitions to wear the green and gold - admitting it was one of his main motivations when recovering from an ankle injury.

"That's been my aim since coming back from surgery five or six months ago," Emerton said.

"I feel I'm back. I've got three games under my belt and I'm feeling stronger with each one.

"I hope to have the opportunity to play for the Socceroos again soon.

"You put your hand up for any international game. It's always an honour and a privilege to represent your country.

"Time will tell (but) I'd love to wear the green and gold again."

And while 33-year-old Emerton is eager to get back into the national team, he also admitted this match could serve as the ideal way to give some of Australia's young stars a taste of the international stage.

The likes of Tommy Oar, Mitchell Langerak, James Holland and Adam Sarota could all be considered by coach Holger Osieck - a move which would please Emerton.

"Any opportunity to blood young players in the national team is a good one," he said.

"It's Holger's decision entirely. In any team it's about finding the right balance and when it is the right time to do so."

Osieck said the November 14 friendly against South Korea in Hwaseong would be valuable preparation, with Australia desperate to build on last week's scrappy 2-1 victory over Iraq.

South Korea are top of their World Cup qualifying group after posting convincing wins against Qatar and Lebanon, a draw against Uzbekistan and a loss to Iran.

"This will be another important game as part of our preparation for the second phase of this round of qualifiers," Osieck said.

"We are now at the halfway mark and we need to focus on our remaining qualification matches.

"The match will serve as a good comparison test for us."

The match at Hwaseong Stadium will kick off at 9:00pm (AEDT) and will be the Socceroos' final match of the year.

Osieck's team will resume World Cup qualification in March, when they host Oman at Sydney's Olympic stadium.

AAP

Tags: socceroos, soccer, sport, sydney-2000, nsw, australia

First posted October 23, 2012 07:37:41

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Arnold backs Rogic for Socceroos call-up

Updated November 04, 2012 12:05:47

Central Coast coach Graham Arnold believes teen sensation Tom Rogic's "scary" talent will be hard to ignore when Holger Osieck selects his Socceroos squad to face South Korea next week.

Rogic, 19, was brilliant as the Mariners humiliated NSW rivals Sydney FC 7-2 in Gosford on Saturday night, netting two goals and creating danger virtually every time he touched the ball.

Australia coach Osieck watched on from the stands and would surely have been impressed amid growing calls for the youngster to be given a shot in the national side.

The German coach is expected to use the November 14 friendly in Hwaseong to experiment with his squad ahead of East Asian qualifiers next month, where a squad predominantly made up of A-League and Asian-based players will be used.

It means Rogic could soon get his chance and former Socceroos coach Arnold believes it is a no-brainer if Osieck is looking for fresh playmaking talent.

"I don't think Holger's got a tough job to pick if he's going to play with a number 10 because he (Rogic) is the only Australian number 10 in the whole league. Everyone else has foreigners," said Arnold.

"Tommy, he's a player for an occasion. You could see it in his face when he walked into the dressing room (before Saturday's win). It was like 'here we go, this is what I want to play for'.

"The kid's still a player in nappies when it comes to outdoor football ... but his natural talent is scary."

Rogic's performance was one of many positives for Arnold in a satisfying victory over the club he knocked back to coach this season.

Arnold was also full of praise for veteran striker Daniel McBreen, who remarkably became the first player in eight seasons to score a hat-trick for the club.

The coach revealed a new, lighter training program was working wonders for the 34 year-old.

"He's such a hard worker that even at training, he gives 110 per cent," Arnold said.

"Probably he's been guilty himself of working that hard at training that when Saturday comes, he's a little bit down.

"We've lightened the training loads up enormously to keep his feet fresh and his mind fresh. I think you can see he's getting the rewards from it."

Saturday's match in front of more than 15,000 fans reinforced Sydney coach Ian Crook's view the Mariners were the best side in the competition while Arnold said his team had set a new standard it now had to maintain.

AAP

Tags: a-league, soccer, sport, gosford-2250, sydney-2000, nsw, australia

First posted November 04, 2012 12:05:47

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Rookie Socceroos selected for East Asian Cup

Updated November 22, 2012 20:08:02

New faces dominate the 25-man Socceroos squad selected for next month's East Asian Cup qualifying tournament.

The tournament, to be played in Hong Kong from December 1-9, falls outside official FIFA match dates.

As a result Socceroos coach Holger Osieck has selected a squad comprising A-League players and those playing in leagues taking a seasonal break.

Terry Antonis and Adam Taggart were selected after helping the Young Socceroos qualify for the 2013 under-20 World Cup.

Other players selected in their first Socceroos squad include Ivan Franjic, Rostyn Griffiths, Ben Halloran, Aaron Mooy and Osama Malik along with Dino Djulbic and Matt Smith.

Aziz Behich, Eli Babalj and Tom Rogic have been retained after making their debuts against South Korea earlier this month. Goal scorer Robbie Cornthwaite and Michael Thwaite have also been retained from that squad.

Returning to the Socceroos after varying periods of absence are Brett Emerton, Eugene Galekovic, Richard Garcia, Scott Jamieson, Michael Marrone and Dario Vidosic.

Joining Australia in the East Asian Cup qualifiers are Chinese-Taipei, Guam, Hong Kong and North Korea. They are fighting for a place alongside Japan, South Korea and China.

Dinamo Moscow's Luke Wilkshire is the only regular European-based Socceroo to be named in the side.

Osieck said he always expected to have a weaker squad available for the Hong Kong tournament.

"These dates are not internationally protected, so it was clear from the moment that we agreed to play in this tournament that we wouldn't get any players from Europe," Osieck explained.

"Even the Middle East players are not considered because their seasons are in full swing."

Meanwhile Football Federation Australia has announced the Socceroos will play a World Cup qualifier against Jordan at Docklands in Melbourne on June 11 next year.

Terry Antonis (Sydney FC), Eli Babalj (FK Crvena Zvezda Beograd), Aziz Behich (Melbourne Heart FC), Robert Cornthwaite (Chunnam Dragons), Dino Djulbic (Guizhou Renhe), Ivan Franjic (Brisbane Roar FC), Brett Emerton (Sydney FC), Eugene Galekovic gk, (Adelaide United), Richard Garcia (Melbourne Heart), Rostyn Griffiths, Ben Halloran (Brisbane Roar), Scott Jamieson (Perth Glory), Osama Malik (Adelaide United), Michael Marrone (Melbourne Heart), Matt McKay (Busan I Park), Mark Milligan (Melbourne Victory), Aaron Mooy (Western Sydney Wanderers), Tom Rogic (Central Coast Mariners), Mat Ryan, gk (Central Coast Mariners), Matt Smith (Brisbane Roar), Adam Taggart (Newcastle Jets), Archie Thompson (Melbourne Victory), Michael Thwaite (Perth Glory), Dario Vidosic (Adelaide United), Luke Wilkshire (FK Dinamo Moscow).

Tags: socceroos, soccer, sport, sydney-2000, australia, nsw, melbourne-3000

First posted November 22, 2012 13:02:54

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Socceroos flirting with 'last chance'

Updated October 16, 2012 12:23:11

Socceroos coach Holger Osieck has reminded his squad that defeat in tomorrow morning's crucial qualifier against Iraq could spell the end of their World Cup dream.

Australia goes into the Doha match third in Group B, level with combatants Iraq and two points adrift of Jordan.

If Jordan defeats Oman and the Socceroos fall to Iraq, Osieck's men could find themselves five points adrift of an automatic qualification spot with just four matches remaining.

Osieck said his side should benefit from a solid preparation in Qatar over the last week, but knows other factors could motivate the Socceroos further.

"In football you never know when your last chance has come," he said.

"To play in a World Cup, it happens only every four years and four years is a long period in football life, for everybody.

"Now, we are preparing for Brazil and our target is to go to Brazil and we put all our efforts together to achieve our target."

Skipper Lucas Neill, who has been under the most pressure after a poor display in Australia's 2-1 loss to Jordan, is banking on big-game experience favouring the Socceroos.

"It's a World Cup qualifier, we're not seeing it as any more pressurised than any other game we've played," he said.

"It's no more special because they're all special, but, we've prepared well, we know what we have to do and we're now going to let our football do the rest of the talking."

Iraq lost 6-0 to Brazil in a friendly last week, but Osieck is taking more out of Iraq's brave 1-0 defeat to group favourite Japan in Saitama last month.

But the Socceroos coach was blunt on how recent results impact the match at 1.15am (AEDT) on Wednesday.

"It's not very important what happened last week, it's important what happens tomorrow," he said.

"I think Iraq has a good team. How well they did against other teams I don't care.

"I think we have to look into our performance. That is very important."

While Osieck would not be drawn on who he thought were Iraq's best players, the Socceroos will be aware of the threat posed by the likes of veteran Nashat Akram, striker Younis Mahmoud and promising winger Ahmed Yasin.

"They have a number of good players. They have a lot of players with great experience that have been around for a number of years," Osieck said.

"They were part of the team that won the Asian championship in 2007. These players are still dominant."

Neill said the Socceroos coaching staff has prepared the team as much as possible for the Iraqis.

"We've worked on the balance, because we know that the game can be won and lost at our end of the field or their end, or in set pieces or in general play," he said.

"We've focussed the last few days on some videos of the Iraqis and now we know what we have to do."

Tags: socceroos, soccer, sport, australia, jordan, iraq

First posted October 16, 2012 10:19:53

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Schwarzer urges Socceroos to 'wake up'

Updated October 16, 2012 06:44:20

Socceroos goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer is expecting Australia to lift significantly for Wednesday's World Cup qualifier against Iraq in Doha.

Australia must beat Iraq to stay within reach of automatic qualification for the 2014 showpiece in Brazil.

Schwarzer says the Socceroos will rebound from their previous qualifier loss to Jordan.

"A very big reaction [is needed]," he said.

"We talked about it at the beginning of the week and also at various points throughout the week about how important it is, particularly the older players, the more experienced players to step up and not only lift their own performances but also demand it from the other players as well."

Schwarzer has called on his team-mates to 'wake up to themselves' after a disappointing start to the qualifying campaign, saying he was disgusted with the 2-1 loss to Jordan in September.

"Obviously I wasn't happy and I made sure that everyone was aware of that," Schwarzer said.

"They shouldn't be happy with anything that went on in that game and we need to do a lot better.

"We need to take a hard look at ourselves, otherwise we're going to be looking at the exit."

Midfielder Matt McKay says players are feeling the pressure ahead of the Iraq clash and that they recognise the significance of the match.

"Obviously with the opening games that we've had so far in this group, the build up, the pressure on this game - it's a massive fixture for all of us and we all know that," he said.

"We need to get three points out of it really to push our campaign back on track."

Tags: socceroos, soccer, sport, qatar, iraq, australia

First posted October 15, 2012 11:52:20

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Young Socceroos ready to stand up

Updated October 12, 2012 13:48:08

Holger Osieck has asked for more from his seasoned campaigners, but it is the Socceroos' young guns who are ready to step up against Iraq in Wednesday's (AEDT) World Cup qualifier.

When announcing his squad to face Iraq, coach Osieck said he expected his senior players to provide guidance for the group in the lead up to, and throughout, Wednesday's crucial fixture.

However, with a handful of in-form emerging talents joining the likes of Lucas Neill, Tim Cahill and Mark Schwarzer in Doha, Osieck could be tempted to turn to Australia's generation next for inspiration.

In the likes of James Holland (23), Ryan McGowan (23), Tommy Oar (20) and Adam Sarota (23), Osieck has four relatively untried talents playing regularly in top European leagues to call upon.

"For us it's just important to show the coach, the boss, that we are here and that we are ready," said Holland, a cornerstone contributor with heavyweight Austrian club Austria Vienna.

"We can only do that by training well and showing him that we're confident enough and I suppose we've got to get the runs on the board.

"It's important for us to show that every day on the training field and whether the boss decides to give us a chance or not, that's just up to him and we just have to be ready."

Refreshingly, Holland is just one of many young Australian talents making a noteworthy impression abroad of late.

Robbie Kruse (24) is a regular in Germany's Bundesliga with Fortuna Dusseldorf, while defender McGowan has not missed a game for Hearts in Scotland's Premier League.

In the Netherlands, former Brisbane Roar attacker Oar has worked his way into the starting side at FC Utrecht, where fellow Queenslander Sarota has been starring since the opening day of the season.

"If that happens (game time against Iraq), it would be fantastic but I guess, I've just got to train well here, like I did in Utrecht and, if I do get a chance, hopefully do well," said Sarota.

"I'm not putting too much pressure on myself to come to the Socceroos camp and all of a sudden start playing and this and that, I'd love to, but at the end of the day it's up to Holger and I've got to respect his decision."

AAP

Tags: socceroos, soccer, sport, qatar, iraq, australia

First posted October 12, 2012 13:48:08

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Socceroos focussed on tough Iraq clash

Updated October 11, 2012 10:14:09

Recent history with Iraq ensures the Socceroos are on high alert as they look to give their 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign a badly-needed boost.

Australia head into Wednesday's (AEDT) qualifier in Doha knowing a loss to the Iraqis could put their quest to reach a third successive World Cup in Brazil in serious jeopardy following last month's shock loss to Jordan.

Coach Holger Osieck's men are favourites to claim three points at the neutral venue in Qatar but they are keenly aware it will not be easy against an Iraq side which has proved stubborn opposition for Australia in recent years.

At senior and restricted age level, Australia are yet to defeat Iraq in regulation time in matches played away from home.

The Socceroos did win their last clash at the 2011 Asian Cup but only after a Harry Kewell goal deep into extra time after the regular period finished scoreless.

The sides split their four clashes prior to that with Iraq prevailing in matches in 2007 and 2008 and Australia winning home games in 2005 and 2008 by a single goal.

"I can't remember an easy game against Iraq," said Socceroos midfielder Carl Valeri, whose first encounter with Iraq with the under-23 Olyroos resulted in a 1-0 loss at the 2004 Athens Olympic Games.

"I can't remember an easy game in Asia in general but Iraq are definitely one of the toughest opponents we've come across."

While the Socceroos have been in camp in Doha for several days, Iraq will not touch down at the Qatari capital until Friday.

Their 30-man squad is in Sweden preparing with a glamour friendly against 2014 hosts Brazil on Friday morning (AEDT).

Iraq's game against the five-time world champions will boost the match sharpness of an ageing line-up that still boasts some of the country's most celebrated football talents.

Goalkeeper Noor Sabri, defender Bassim Abbas, midfielders Nashat Akram and Qusay Munir and striker Younis Mahmoud - collectively the spine of the Iraqi line-up - can count close to a staggering 500 international caps between them.

"They're a very difficult team and they have a lot of games together as a unit," said midfielder Mile Jedinak, who started in the Asian Cup triumph over Iraq last year.

"They're almost like a club team in a sense because they have so many caps together, the majority of them.

"We know we did it last time, in a tough game in the Asian Cup.

"I think we deservedly won that game and hopefully more of the same will come next Tuesday."

The Socceroos are third in their five-team qualification group with five matches still to play.

The top two qualify directly for the Brazil showpiece event - though Japan already look on track for top spot - with the third-placed team needing to win two sudden-death play-offs.

Valeri said the mood within camp in Doha reflected Australia's situation.

"We're all pretty focused. It's not so much about catching up (with each other) this time," Valeri said.

"We always like to have a laugh but this time it's more serious.

"We know what's at stake here."

AAP

Tags: socceroos, soccer, sport, qatar, iraq, australia

First posted October 11, 2012 10:14:09

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Socceroos stunned by lowly Jordan

Updated September 12, 2012 10:14:15

The Socceroos face a fight to reach the World Cup after they slumped to a shock 2-1 away loss to Jordan, producing a pitiful performance which coach Holger Osieck described as an "enormous disappointment".

The atmosphere at the King Abdullah Stadium in Amman was electric after outsider Jordan, thrashed 6-0 by Japan in June, claimed an unlikely win thanks to second-half goals by Hassan Abdel-Fattah Mahmoud and Amer Deeb.

Australia pulled a goal back through substitute Archie Thompson late on, but poor finishing and frantic defending allowed Jordan to claim the memorable win.

Jordan, ranked 87th in the world to Australia's 25th, is now in second place on four points in Group B and in one of the pool's two automatic qualifying berths for a place at the finals in Brazil in 2014.

Australia has two points from three matches and is level with Iraq and Oman in the standings, eight points behind Asian champion Japan.

The top two teams from two groups of five gain automatic entry to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, while the two third-placed countries will go into a play-off series.

"The disappointment is enormous," Osieck told Fox Sports.

"We had a very, very poor first half.

"We didn't get into the game, our passing was a disaster, we never could get into our normal rhythm.

"We played a lot of long balls and I don't know why that happened."

The Socceroos next face a tricky trip to Qatar to play 2007 Asian champion Iraq, and will have to show far more fight and creativity if they want to reach the finals.

"We can't afford many slip-ups now," skipper Lucas Neill said.

"We've got to pick the team that will do the job in each game now.

"We've got to keep believing and stay positive. There's plenty of points to play for.

"But if we perform like we did tonight it's going to be difficult."

Towering Socceroos defender Sasa Ognenovski had to leave the field after only 14 minutes with an injury, forcing Osieck into an early reshuffle, and Jordan's high-tempo game unsettled the Australians without creating clear chances.

That changed in the 48th minute when Jordan forward Odai Al-Saify skipped down the left and was felled in the penalty area as he cut back inside Mile Jedinak.

Qatari Abdullah Balideh gave the penalty despite the theatrics of Al-Saify, who kissed and smacked the turf in delight, before Mahmoud slotted the spot-kick past goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer.

Jordan retreated and allowed Australia to dictate play before the home side produced a stunning counter to grab a second.

Al-Saify led a breakout and skipped around Lucas Neill before cutting the ball back for Deeb to fire in at the near post in the 77th minute.

The Australians, who slumped to a 0-0 draw away to Oman in their opening qualifier, were rattled and Jordan should have had a third but Deeb clipped his shot just over the bar.

Jedinak smacked the post with a long-range drive as the visitors struggled to find the creative spark required and relied on hopeful balls into the area.

Substitute Thompson, who once scored 13 goals in a World Cup qualifier against American Samoa, pulled one back for the visitors with five minutes to go as he fired a right-foot shot past Shafia.

It made it goals in successive internationals for the Melbourne Victory marksman, who broke a six-year scoring drought in last week's friendly against Lebanon.

The goal set up a nervy finale with AFC vice-president Prince Ali Bin Al-Hussein amongst those home fans unable to watch.

But after Robbie Kruse wasted one good chance, Jordan held firm and the world's 87th-ranked side claimed the unlikely win.

Japan strengthened its iron grip on top spot in the group with a 1-0 win over Iraq in Saitama.

Seeking its fifth consecutive World Cup appearance, Japan now has 10 points from its first four games, including earlier wins against Jordan and Oman and a 1-1 away draw with Australia.

Hit by the late withdrawal of Manchester United's Shinji Kagawa with a lower back twinge, Japan weathered an early storm from a makeshift Iraq side marshalled by former Blue Samurai coach Zico.

But the hosts earned the crucial breakthrough when Stuttgart's Shinji Okazaki fed Jubilo Iwata striker Ryoichi Maeda in the six-yard box to nod home the game's only goal on 25 minutes.

Elsewhere in Asian qualifying, mighty Iran was sent spinning to its first ever defeat to outsider Lebanon, losing 1-0, while Group A leader South Korea was held to a pulsating 2-2 draw by Uzbekistan.

Although South Korea dropped points for the first time in the final qualifying round, it remained top of Group A with seven points from three games.

Reuters/AFP

Tags: soccer-world-cup, socceroos, soccer, sport, jordan, australia

First posted September 12, 2012 05:15:51

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Every game now a 'must win' for Socceroos

By Mike Tuckerman

Updated September 12, 2012 14:40:42

There comes a point where actions speak louder than words. Sadly for the Socceroos that point has now passed after yet another insipid performance in their 2-1 World Cup qualifying defeat to Jordan in Amman.

In the build-up to the game, Socceroos coach Holger Osieck warned his team that Jordan would "play their hearts out."

His players, said media reports coming out of the Jordanian capital, were mentally prepared. Yet faced with a desperate opponent, a treacherous pitch and a vociferous home crowd roaring its team on with fanatical intensity, the Socceroos came to pieces.

Australia's problems start at the back. David Carney has always been more effective in an attacking role, while Luke Wilkshire is a serviceable defender at best. Faced by a pair of fleet-footed opposition wingers - and there are plenty of those in Asian football - Australia's full-backs looked all at sea.

Pace in defence is in equally short supply, particularly when 34-year-old skipper Lucas Neill lines up alongside his 33-year-old central defensive partner Sasa Ognenovski. The latter limped off through injury against Jordan but his replacement Matthew Spiranovic had little impact, with the Socceroos seemingly shell-shocked by the sheer aggression of Jordan's high-tempo pressing game.

Such was Jordan's ability to close down space inside a ferociously hostile King Abdullah Stadium, neutral fans would have been forgiven for thinking Australia's midfield was non-existent. It certainly appeared that way as the Socceroos resorted to long-ball football in a desperate attempt to force their opponents back.

When substitute Archie Thompson finally waltzed through a tired Jordanian defence to score late on, it begged the question of why Australia failed to keep the ball on the ground for longer. Technically and tactically the Socceroos were found wanting and ominously for Osieck, it was not for the first time.

The Socceroos are now down but not out. Three of their final four games are at home and suddenly clashes with Oman and Iraq in Sydney and a keenly anticipated return fixture against Jordan in Melbourne no longer look set to be dead rubbers.

But should Australia fail to qualify for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil - unthinkable at the start of fourth round qualifying but now a distinct possibility - Osieck can point to key moments going against his side.

At half-time in Amman, Socceroos playmaker Mark Bresciano joined Ognenovski in the injury ward. His replacement Mile Jedinak came off the bench and promptly missed a far-post header to open the scoring. Minutes later, Jedinak was charged with bringing down Jordan's Odai Al Saify, allowing Hassan Abdel Fattah to step up to the penalty spot and send Jordan on its way.

Against Japan in Brisbane it was Mark Milligan's curious red card which drew Osieck's ire. In Muscat it was Oman's steadfast decision to kick-off at the blisteringly hot hour of 5:00pm (local time) which annoyed the German coach. Yet these concerns mask the simple fact that an ageing, seemingly underprepared squad has now collected just two points from its first three final-round qualifiers.

That Japan will top the group seems a fait accompli. The Samurai Blue have collected 10 points from four games, scored 11 goals and conceded just one in the process. In Shinji Kagawa, they possess one of the world's best players. In Keisuke Honda, they have a talismanic leader. Japan is today what the Socceroos were five years ago - an Asian side capable of beating the world's best.

Meanwhile Australia no longer seems capable of beating Asia's best. A trip to Japan in June 2013 now looms large. Before that, Australia simply must beat Iraq in Doha next month. Anything less than a win in the neutral confines of the Grand Hamad Stadium will severely jeopardise Australia's chances of qualifying for Brazil - if not in terms of points, then at least in terms of confidence going forward.

Has it really come to this?

Tags: sport, soccer, soccer-world-cup, australia

First posted September 12, 2012 13:34:23

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Socceroos not taking Jordan lightly

Updated September 11, 2012 08:42:46

Sixty-two places separate Australia and Jordan in FIFA's world rankings, but a win for the Socceroos in Amman on Wednesday morning (AEST) is far from a formality, according to coach Holger Osieck.

Following their 3-0 trouncing of Lebanon last week, Osieck's men are in a confident mood ahead of the World Cup qualifier, where Australia could take a giant leap towards a place in Brazil in 2014.

One of three teams on two points in Group B, a win in Amman would put Australia in a commanding position, particularly with three of its last four matches to be played at home.

Standing in their way is a Jordan side anchored to the bottom of the section, but one that will be difficult to conquer, according to Osieck.

"They play, at times, some very, very high level football," Osieck said at the pre-match press conference.

"We had a good game against Lebanon, but don't get deceived by the score, we had to work for it very hard and our boys performed very well."

Australia and Jordan have never met at senior international level, though the Olyroos (under-23s) did post a 4-0 triumph in an Olympic Games qualifier five years ago at the venue for Wednesday's match.

Jordan has not hosted an opponent of the Socceroos stature since back-to-back friendlies against Sweden and Cote d'Ivoire in January 2005.

As such, the 20,000 capacity of the King Abdullah International Stadium is sure to be tested for one of the most significant fixtures of Jordan's football history, with tickets selling for around $5.

Jordan's situation is the most desperate of any team in Group B, following its 1-1 draw at home to Iraq and 6-0 hammering at the hands of Japan in June.

Coach Adnan Hamad, an Iraqi who has twice been in charge of Iraq sides to have defeated Australia firstly at the 2004 Olympic Games and most recently in qualification for the 2010 World Cup, believes his men are capable of causing an upset.

And he does not expect this to be the match toughest Jordan will face in qualification.

"There's a lot of games we played before and in the fourth round (of qualifiers), all the matches are difficult," Hamad said.

AAP

Tags: sport, soccer, soccer-world-cup, jordan, australia

First posted September 11, 2012 08:41:44

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Socceroos find form to down Lebanon

Updated September 07, 2012 17:26:18

The Socceroos will head into their World Cup qualifier in Jordan full of confidence after bouncing back to form with a 3-0 win over Lebanon in Beirut on Friday morning (AEST).

Tim Cahill and then Matt McKay found the back of the net within three minutes midway through the first half before Archie Thompson netted late to seal Australia's first triumph since February.

Goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer was largely a spectator throughout his milestone 100th international appearance while his team-mates showed passages of the cohesion and energy that will be required to earn Australia a third straight World Cup berth.

"We were focused on putting in a performance tonight and fine-tuning things," defender Luke Wilkshire told Grandstand.

"I think it was an ideal preparation in terms of the conditions, the pitch and the opposition for the Jordan game.

"Everyone was aware of the poor performance against Scotland and we wanted to get it right. It was important to get back to our (usual) ways and put in a good performance and I think we did that."

The Saida Municipal Stadium, surrounded by military tanks and armed guards, provided every measure of tension the Socceroos could possibly have to deal with in Jordan on Tuesday (Wednesday morning AEST).

"It was a really encouraging performance tonight," said captain Lucas Neill after the match.

"We were disappointing against Scotland, we knew we had to be better, we knew we had to put a lot of hard work in and we've done that this week.

"I think we've been rewarded for a good preparation and I think we've put ourselves in a perfect place now ready for Jordan on Tuesday."

Coach Holger Osieck played his strongest pace and energy card in response to last month's 3-1 humbling at the hands of Scotland, employing 23-year-old Robbie Kruse and Nikita Rukavytsya, 25, in attacking tandem for the first time.

However, a reminder of the value of experience came from the performances of Cahill and midfield veteran Mark Bresciano, who were sublime throughout their respective 60 and 45-minute contributions.

Bresciano and Cahill combined for Australia's first shot on goal though it was another seasoned campaigner, Wilkshire, who provided the final cross for Cahill to power home on twenty minutes.

Minutes later, McKay netted his first international goal - an angled effort on the end of a David Carney centre that was crafted by another exceptional Bresciano lead up.

With only a few minutes to play, Thompson provided a delicate finish after being played through by Brett Holman to put the gloss on a vastly improved Australian performance that augurs well ahead of the resumption of their World Cup qualification quest.

"It's a big challenge (against Jordan), the conditions are going to be very, very extreme again," said Schwarzer.

"Today was a good preparation for us because the conditions are going to be similar, so hopefully we can go to Jordan and continue where we left off today."

Wilkshire also paid tribute to his long-time team-mate Schwarzer for whom all the players walked out with shirts with '100' emblazoned on before the match to honour his milestone.

"I thought it was for his 100th birthday," Wilkshire joked.

"It's a remarkable achievement for Mark. He's been great on and off the field. My hat goes off to him. It's a marvellous achievement."

ABC/AAP

Tags: sport, socceroos, soccer, lebanon, australia

First posted September 07, 2012 05:49:08

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Socceroos downed by Scotland in friendly

Updated August 16, 2012 08:12:40

Jason Davidson scored an own goal just three minutes into his Socceroos debut as Australia fell to a 3-1 defeat against Scotland at Easter Road.

Davidson, the son of former Australia international Alan, entered the field in place of left back David Carney in the 59th minute and soon afterwards met Danny Fox's cross with a header out of the reach of replacement Socceroos goalkeeper Adam Federici.

Australia took the lead after 19 minutes through a superb 20-yard dipping volley from Mark Bresciano - less than a minute after Brett Holman should have been awarded a goal after his strike sneaked past the goal-line before being blocked by Fox's hand.

Neither a goal nor penalty were awarded but as the resulting corner was cleared Australia's complaints were ended by Bresciano's superb strike.

Scotland was back on level terms ten minutes later through a fine stooping header from Huddersfield striker Jordan Rhodes, who was making his full debut.

After an even first half, the hosts dominated proceedings after the break and were full value for the lead they were gifted by Davidson.

The game was then put beyond doubt when substitute Ross McCormack turned a defender on the edge of the penalty area and slotted home wrong-footing Federici.

Although just a friendly, the performance and result against a side ranked 22 places below Australia in the FIFA rankings - and one coming off a 5-1 thrashing to the United States - concerned coach Holger Osieck.

"The bottom line is we played very poorly," Osieck told Fox Sports.

"I consider it a wake-up call. We need to improve a lot before the World Cup qualifier.

"Maybe it's the wake-up call at the right time."

Asked what he said to the players after the match Osieck added: "I said a couple of words I don't want to repeat."

Lucas Neill who skippered the Socceroos for the 50th time said the team was fully aware of their deficiencies.

"We know exactly where we went wrong," Neill said.

"We gave the ball away too cheaply, we weren't brave enough in possession and weren't clinical enough.

"We just gave away possession too easily tonight and allowed Scotland to get possession and then grow in confidence.

"We are disappointed. We need to do a lot more."

Next for Australia is a friendly against Lebanon on September 6, before a World Cup qualifier in Jordan five days later.

Tags: sport, soccer, socceroos, scotland, australia

First posted August 16, 2012 07:04:16

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Herd ruled out of Socceroos friendly

Updated August 14, 2012 11:49:24

Chris Herd has failed in his battle to be fit for the Socceroos' friendly against Scotland on Thursday morning (AEST).

The verstaile Aston Villa player recently sustained a quadriceps strain and has been unable to recover in time for the match in Edinburgh.

Australia, which defeated Scotland 2-0 in their last meeting in 2000, is preparing for its World Cup qualifiers against Jordan and Iraq on September 11 and October 16 respectively.

The Scotland players could find themselves up against a couple of familiar players in the Australian line-up with Hearts player Ryan McGowan in line to make his debut for the Socceroos while former Motherwell and Celtic player Scott McDonald has been included in the 20-man squad.

The striker, scored 51 goals in 88 games for Celtic, but has yet to find the back of the net in 25 appearances for the national team.

McDonald hasn't been involved with the national side since 2010 but he will try to convince Socceroos coach Holger Osieck to give him a start in the country where he's done plenty of damage at club level.

"I've just been biding my time for that chance again and it's this one," the striker said.

"And hopefully I can take it with both hands.

"Obviously, I would like to score. It is every striker's job. I am no different, but there's no added pressure on me.

"Everybody keeps asking the question and it hasn't happened yet. Hopefully, this is the time for that to change with me."

Socceroos coach Osieck has left out Harry Kewell while ex-Everton midfielder Tim Cahill was allowed to stay with the New York Bulls.

Lucas Neill should captain the side despite not currently have a club.

Scotland manager Craig Levein had hoped to use the match to fine tune his side before these massive games but his squad has been hit by a number of high profile withdrawals.

West Brom midfielder Graham Dorrans, Jamie Mackie, Phil Bardsley have all pulled out through injury while first team picks such as Darren Fletcher, Scott Brown, Kenny Miller and Steven Whittaker are also out.

However, the Scotland manager has called up Blackburn striker David Goodwillie. Ross McCormack and Rangers player Ian Black, despite the midfielder now plying his trade in Scotland's third division.

ABC/AFP

Tags: socceroos, soccer, sport, australia, scotland, united-kingdom

First posted August 14, 2012 11:49:24

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Cahill among returning Socceroos

Updated August 29, 2012 17:38:03

Tim Cahill heads a group of six players returning to the Socceroos squad for the friendly against Lebanon on September 6 ahead of the World Cup qualifier against Jordan in Amman a week later.

Cahill, Matt McKay, Jade North, Nikita Rukavytsya, Adam Sarota and Matthew Spiranovic all missed Australia's 3-1 loss to Scotland earlier this month but are back in the 22-man squad for the Lebanon friendly.

Jason Davidson and Ryan McGowan have been retained in the squad after making their debuts against Scotland, while Austria-based midfielder James Holland has been selected for the first time since March.

Veteran goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer will become the first Australian male football player to play 100 A-International matches should he play against Lebanon.

Defender Mark Milligan was unavailable for selection while he serves a suspension for being sent off against Japan in Brisbane in June.

Australia will resume its World Cup qualifying campaign against Jordan early on September 12.

Following a draw against Oman and Japan the Socceroos are in third place in their World Cup qualifying group with the top two teams advancing to the 2016 tournament in Brazil.

Socceroos squad: Mark Bresciano, Alex Brosque, Tim Cahill, David Carney, Jason Davidson, Adam Federici, James Holland, Brett Holman, Mile Jedinak, Robbie Kruse, Mitchell Langerak, Ryan McGowan, Matthew McKay, Lucas Neill (captain), Jade North, Sasa Ognenovski, Nikita Rukavytsya, Adam Sarota, Mark Schwarzer, Matthew Spiranovic, Archie Thompson and Luke Wilkshire

Tags: soccer, soccer-world-cup, sport, australia

First posted August 29, 2012 17:38:03

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Socceroos held to disappointing draw

Updated June 09, 2012 10:08:48

An indifferent Australia escaped the searing heat of Muscat with a goalless draw against Oman in their World Cup qualifying match on Friday.

The Socceroos were second best for long periods in the Group B fourth-round clash played in temperatures peaking at 35 degrees Celsius.

Socceroos coach Holger Osieck says although his troops were chasing the win, at least they took away a point from Muscat.

"Circumstances made it very difficult to achieve our target," he said.

"It's a point each and it's the first game of the campaign and campaigns have never been decided in the first game."

Oman had been outclassed in losing its opening fixture 3-0 away to Japan on Sunday, but Paul Le Guen's side played with much more confidence as they pressured their opponents for large parts of the match.

The hosts had the best chance of the game in the 56th minute, but a brilliant save from Socceroos goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer turned a diving header from Amad Al Hosni around the post to leave the striker holding his head in his hands.

The opportunity came from a corner, one of several the 97 FIFA-ranked Oman had in the second half as it regularly found itself in good positions down the flanks against the tiring visitors.

The Socceroos, who lost to Oman 1-0 in Muscat in the third round of qualifiers, had named a defensive starting line-up with forward Harry Kewell up front on his own.

But he, like many of his team-mates, struggled in the heat during the match which started with the sun shining bright at 5:00pm (local time), much to the ire of Osieck, who had questioned the kick-off time.

Both sides were restricted to long shots in a forgettable first period at a half-empty Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex but the second 45 minutes proved more entertaining as space opened up.

Having introduced forwards Archie Thompson and Robbie Kruse off the bench in the second half, the Socceroos produced a late flurry but any winner would have been harsh on the more adventurous Oman.

Thompson, who scored 13 goals in a qualifier against American Samoa in 2001, wasted the Socceroos' best chance when he miscued an attempted pass with eight minutes remaining when a shot looked the best option.

Australia will be seeking a much improved display in its second match of the group on Tuesday at home to Asian champions Japan in Brisbane, who thrashed Jordan 6-0 earlier on Friday to make it two wins from two.

Reuters

Tags: socceroos, soccer, sport, soccer-world-cup, oman, australia

First posted June 09, 2012 07:59:02

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Socceroos accept underdog tag

Updated June 12, 2012 06:31:09

Socceroos captain Lucas Neill concedes that Japan deserves to be favourite for the World Cup qualifying match in Brisbane on Tuesday night.

Speaking in Brisbane on the eve of the important qualifier, Neill said Japan is the clear favourite for the game and he has no problem with that.

Japan has scored nine goals - with strong performances from stars Keisuke Honda and Manchester United-bound Shinji Kagawa - and conceded none in its wins over Oman and Jordan in the final stage of qualifying for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Australia started its final stage of qualifying with a 0-0 draw with Oman and as a result is five points behind Japan.

"The game is important because we are at home, the game is important because we need to get maximum points from every game we play," Neill said.

"I think Japan is the favourite for this game. With their preparation, they have had two home games, they came here with confidence, they came here earlier than we did to play on our home turf.

"We know we're in for a very tough game ... but it's one we believe we can win."

Team coach Holger Osieck agreed with his captain, and said the Japanese went into the game with two key wins under their belt.

"When you win two games you are full of confidence, and you are riding on a high," he said.

"(But) we are not here to give any presents, although they are top we will still be looking to get a result."

A strong rivalry exists between Japan and Australia.

The Socceroos beat the Blue Samurai 3-1 in the group stages of the 2006 World Cup in Kaiserslautern - the two teams will meet on Tuesday on the sixth anniversary of that game.

More recently, however, Australia lost the 2011 Asian Cup title to Japan in a tough final last November.

Neill said the loss at the Asian Cup would provide some motivation to the team in the qualifier.

"It was a very nice memory for the Japanese, a very bad memory for us," he said.

"It was a great final, we lost perhaps because of one lapse in concentration.

"It's a situation like that, that gives us motivation, the desire to put things right.

"Beating Japan would be a great way to heal (from that defeat), but the most important thing is to qualify for the World Cup, whether we are first or second."

Osieck was giving nothing away on team selection, 24 hours before the game.

He told reporters that changes were possible to the side which drew with Oman, but did not give any hints on who might be possible inclusions.

In particular he was asked about the chances of Socceroos veteran Tim Cahill starting against the Japanese.

Cahill - who memorably scored two late goals for Australia to beat Japan six years ago at the World Cup - has been on the fringes of selection, missing six of the last seven matches.

Like fellow striker Josh Kennedy, Cahill did not get to play against Oman.

"Looking at our group, every one on the list could be on the pitch (against Japan)," Osieck said.

"I haven't decided yet. Tim is definitely always in contention for the starting XI."

Neill said there was a mentality within the squad that form was the key element in selection.

"Age and experience is good, but the manager will pick his side ... on form and his feeling," Neill said.

"He doesn't take into consideration age or caps.

"Everyone in our team has a chance of playing, regardless of maturity or lack of maturity.

"We have to be playing well at club level, if you are then you get to play at (Socceroos) level."

Tags: sport, soccer, socceroos, brisbane-4000, australia, qld

First posted June 11, 2012 12:53:16

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