You know that feeling when something is so close yet so far? That’s how I feel about the Socceroos right now and their quest to be the champions of Asia.
At a time when Australia has lost the Ashes and with no players left in the Australian Open, it would be a perfect time for the Socceroos to win a trophy, because we all know that nothing makes Aussies happier than winning something in sport.
The Asian Cup has increased in importance over the years. Even if the Socceroos make the finals, it would be such an achievement and it beats getting knocked out early in the competition.
The game against Iraq must have been one of the most frustrating and tense Socceroos games I have ever watched, knowing that winning that match would mean the Socceroos would reach the semi finals, one step closer to the finals.
Seeing Harry Kewell score that winner reminded me when I first saw him play back in 1997 against Iran, when he scored his first international goal. A star was born and it is good to know a much older Harry Kewell still has potential in him, despite all the naysayers out there.
What made it even sweeter was when Holger Osieck questioned the critics about his choice of Kewell in the team.
As a team we have evolved so much since 1997, with more outstanding players who have had individual achievements with their clubs. As Bahrain taught us though, we really should not assume too early that a game is won because of our opponent’s current world rankings, as we still struggled to score goals in that match.
I believe we can win this Asian Cup, and nothing would make Australia Day extra special than finding out we have made it into the finals.
Tageskarte
Guest
You should feel the buzz in Sydney. The place is about to explode in anticipation. Glory for our Australian National Football Team is imminent. It is all they talk about at work. Can't be good for productivity.
Fussball ist unser leben
Roar Guru
Nice column, Lorna. I, too, recall watching Harry score his first goal in the away leg against Iran in 1997 ... I, naively thought, "great we've got an important AWAY goal". Little did I know what would transpire during return leg at the MCG. However, for me, the only time I follow any Australian sports team and passionately want them to win is for football. With other sports, I'm happy for the particular players, but I neither celebrate any victory nor get distraught by any loss. But, with football - any Australian team, of any age, in any official competition - the emotions are indescribable when we win; and gut-wrenching when we lose. So, of course, I want Australia to win the Asian Cup for my personal joy and the joy it brings all The True Believers ... ... but, particularly, I want this Asian Cup victory for the joy it will bring "our golden generation" - lads like H and Lucas, Schwarzy, Emo & Timmy - who make us all proud to say: Fußball ist unser leben!
Vas Venkatramani
Guest
Lorna, I'm hoping a victorious Socceroos side can finally bring football the attention it deserves. In the current environment of a poor Ashes summer and a poor showing by the local lads at the tennis, this could very well be a great chance. Timing is everything.