Never underestimate an Australian outfit touted the underdog. Following a heart-breaking 2-1 loss in their 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia opener against France, there are a few significant points worth noting about this spirited Australian side.
Gritty in defence
The Australians were rock solid in the backline. Trent Sainsbury was immensely calm under pressure and combined well with Socceroos veteran Mark Milligan, along with Mat Ryan in goal. They controlled the tempo of the Australian setup, something that Denmark and Peru will definitely be taking note.
The team had tremendous guts, we just couldn’t get ourselves over the line…structure-wise we were almost perfect, Sainsbury explained post-match.
Extremely proud of the effort our guys put in…they did more than match it with them today. We deserved more from the game than nothing, added Ryan.
Fearlessness
Coach Bert van Marwijk successfully drilled it into the team that they had to be themselves and not become overawed with their opponent or the occasion. This was evident throughout the Australian starting XI. The Socceroos of the past have often looked lost in the opening stages of a World Cup, but this new class were not rattled in the slightest. They were well-organised across most of the park and more than held their own against a formidable French side.
It wasn’t a performance that we should get beaten by…we can take a lot of positives out of this game and move onto the next, – Sainsbury added.
Lacking flair up front
If Tim Cahill is the master, then Daniel Arzani is surely the apprentice. However, neither are likely to get a starting role at this World Cup, so much of the expectation lies with Andrew Nabbout. He will not be able make a difference until the midfield can link up with him more successfully than they did today.
With the likes of Aaron Mooy, Mathew Leckie and Tomi Rogic in midfield, the supply line is there, but the Socceroos will need to work on making sure all the pieces flow if they are going to capitalise on that creativity.
