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Young Socceroos coach Jan Versleijen says Australia faces a tough task against Costa Rica, as they strive for a vital victory in the FIFA under 20 World Cup in Colombia.
The Australians needed a spectacular late long distance free kick from winger Tommy Oar to salvage a 1-1 draw in their tournament opener against Ecuador.
A victory over Costa Rica on Thursday (AEST) would give Australia one foot in the quarter-finals.
It would also prevent them facing an undesirable must-win situation against European powerhouse Spain in their final group game next Sunday (AEST).
“If you want to qualify for the next stage you need at least four points,” Versleijen said.
“That means you have to win one of your next two games.
“It would be good if we can do that by the end of the second game against Costa Rica.”
Spain underlined their class with a crushing 4-1 first-up win over Costa Rica to go two points clear at the top of the four-team group.
“I saw the game, Costa Rica has a very good team so it will be a tough task for us,” Versleijen said.
“If you want to get out of the group, that’s your assignment.”
Costa Rica will present a different challenge to Ecuador, according to Dutchman Versleijen.
“The game against Costa Rica will be a completely different game because of the playing style of Costa Rica,” Versleijen said.
“They are a team that likes to play a short passing game, they are good on the short combinations, have some skillful players up front.
“It will be a tough game, but it is our task to study Costa Rica very well, analyse their weak points and try to get the result against them.”
One player Australia will need to be wary of is striker Joel Campbell, who bagged six goals in the CONCACAF U-20 championship.
Australia have no major injury issues following the Ecuador game.
With Australia’s starting side struggling to impose themselves against Ecuador, and just three days between their first two games, Versleijen could could consider changes to his run on team for the clash with Costa Rica.
Among those potentially pushing for promotion to the first XI is the squad’s youngest player, 17-year-old midfielder Terry Antonis.
The Sydney FC starlet impressed after coming off the bench against Ecuador, adding some much needed spark.
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