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The Socceroos will play in their final match of the 2013 EAFF East Asian Cup this evening against China. We’ll have live updates and commentary from 6.15pm AEST.
Holger Osieck’s men have already lost the chance to challenge for the title, but a strong finish in this campaign could see them take second spot and earn the respect of the Asian sides.
After starting off with a 0-0 draw with South Korea, Australia lost a close battle three days ago with tournament favourites Japan 3-2.
The Socceroos displayed resiliency in coming back from two goals down to equalise through the boots of Mitchell Duke and Tomi Juric, however just a minute after tying it up they allowed Japan scored the game-winner with ten minutes remaining.
China, who is the only nation to enter a full-strength squad in the tournament, started with their own fightback against Japan which ended in a 3-3 draw.
In the most recent matchday they drew nil-all with hosts South Korea – only recording two shots on goal in the process.
China can still win the tournament with a win and a Japanese loss or draw.
Coach Holger Osieck has pledged that his side, which is almost exclusively A-League based and did not change between the first two games, will be modified this evening to give some playing time and national debuts to some up-and-comers, perhaps players like Trent Sainsbury and Josh Brillante.
This may also entail giving starts to the likes of Mitch Nichols, who impressed off the bench against Japan with an assist.
Archie Thompson is one of the danger men in the competition with four goals over the scope of the East Asia cup, while Yongpo is China’s top scorer with two (both penalties).
The weather outlook for the match may play a factor – temperatures as high as 30 degrees are expected with a chance of storms.
For Australian viewers, the key to this game is the competition between Australia’s rising talent for some of the precious World Cup spots, and identifying which player earn himself Osieck’s favour.
Kickoff starts at 6.15pm AEST, so join us for live commentary here on The Roar.
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