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The Socceroos take on the New Zealand All Whites today at 5pm (5.30pm AEST) today from the Adelaide Oval in the first of two international friendlies this week, with a World Cup replay against Serbia on Tuesday. We’ll be covering the game with live scores and blog of Australia vs New Zealand.
With the two games in close proximity on the calendar, Australian coach Holger Osiek has indicated that he’ll be fielding two vastly different sides for the two games.
Socceroos stars Mark Schwarzer, and Tim Cahill were left out, while regular David Carney is also an admission from the squad due to injures, while it is reported that Harry Kewell’s lack of form saw him overlooked. Australian captain Lucas Neill is in grave doubt for the clash (groin) injury, and Sasa Ognenovski could be rested for Serbia.
With spots open, Osiek has given opportunities to youngsters with Michael Zullo, Rhys Williams, Matt Spiranovic, and James Troisi pushing for a start.
Probable Socceroos Squad (4-4-2): Coe (gk), Williams, Spiranovic, McKain, Zullo; Holman, Kilkenny, Valeri, Emerton Thompson, Kennedy
New Zealand always enjoy stepping up to take on Australia, and will no doubt be looking to get one up on their trans-Tasman rival.
New Zealand still hold the claim of being unbeaten at the 2010 World Cup, but will need to be better than their game against Mexico on Thursday last week, which saw them easily held 3-0.
Added concerns for coach Ricki Herbert are that the All Whites will be weary after a long flight from the United States, and there’s plenty of injury woes for the team.
Skipper Ryan Nelsen remains out with his ongoing knee injury, while Mark Paston, Tony Lochead, Rory Fallon, Winston Ried and Simon Elliot all add to the injuries that have savaged the squad.
Shane Smeltz is the class player for New Zealand and will always be a chance for creating something special should Australia give him space.
Probable All Whites Squad (4-4-2): Moss (gk), Mulligan, Sigmund, Boyens, Fitzgerald, Wood, McGlinchey, Brown, Brockie, Barbarouses, Smeltz
It looks likely that Australia will add another win to the tally against a depleted New Zealand. However, the All Whites are perennial overachievers and will lift for the game. They’ll need to convert any half-chances, as they are likely to be out on their feet towards the latter parts of the game.
Join us for all the coverage with live scores and a live blog.
FINAL SCORE Socceroos win 3-0 over New Zealand 9′ Kennedy, 59′ Kennedy, 90+3 Troisi (pen)
Australia vs New Zealand at Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, Sunday, June 5. Kick-off at 5pm local – 5.30pm AEST (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane).
Head-to-head: Australia 37, New Zealand 10, drawn 11
Last meeting: Australia 2 New Zealand 1, Melbourne, May 2010
FIFA world rankings: Australia 20, New Zealand 60
TAB Sportsbet: Australia $1.40, Draw $4, New Zealand $7.50
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