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The Socceroos complete their World Cup preparations as Daniel Arzani shows us what we have all been waiting for

Can Bert van Marwijk get the Socceroos firing? (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)
Expert
9th June, 2018
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The Socceroos have completed their match preparations for the 2018 World Cup in Russia with a 2-1 victory over Hungary in Budapest.

On a pristine pitch and a beautiful afternoon, the two teams appeared closely matched throughout, with the home side probably having slightly the better of the contest overall.

In a strange finish, two late own-goals, one from each team, tripled the goal tally after Australia looked to be cruising to victory with just a few minutes of normal time remaining.

The Socceroos were under pressure at the back and the home side had a couple of chances in the first half that were not far from finding the net. Mark Milligan and Josh Risdon will need to stiffen up a little at the back after being frequently found out by the consistent attacking raids the Hungarians were able to launch.

The Australian defence scambled well and despite doing little attacking of their own, the visitors entered the break with a chance to re-group and re-think their approach. Tom Rogic was hardly sighted in the first 45 minutes and Risdon was under constant pressure as Hungary attacked down the left flank.

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Bert van Marwijk made changes at intermission and Mile Jedinak changed the dynamic in the midfield. The Hungarians did seem to tire as the second-half unfolded and new Socceroo Daniel Arzani exploded on the scene with a stunning goal, albeit aided by a poor effort from the Hungarian substitute keeper.

The goal looked like the match winner, however just minutes later Trent Sainsbury and Brad Jones lost communication and a sloppy own goal was the result.

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While not heartbreaking, it was disappointing for the Socceroos, although some might suggest a draw would have been a fair result considering the general flow of the game.

Moments later, Arzani was influential again after sliding a ball through for Jackson Irvine, whose centreing pass was also deflected into the back of the net for an own goal.

Both goals were unusual and will remind the Socceroos just how fickle football can be on the world stage.

Australia walk away after a solid hit-out and the manager will have learnt a little more about his players. He must now finalise their preparations for the opening clash of the tournament.

Final score
Hungary 1 Australia 2

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