The Socceroos needed a massive performance in their second game of Group D, following the 4-1 loss against France, and they didn’t disappoint.
A first-half header from Mitch Duke was enough to secure Australia’s first win in a World Cup since 2006 and to give hope to the nation that they could do the unthinkable and progress to the knockout stages.
Matt Ryan: – Kept the team’s first clean sheet at a World Cup since 1974 after making four saves. Massively improved performance compared to the France match and Australia will need him to be on top of his game again when they face Denmark. 7
Fran Karacic: – Right-back was once again the Achilles heel for the Socceroos. Karacic who replaced the injured Atkinson was a suspect both in and out of possession, making a few errors that could’ve cost his side. Ended the game with only 54% completed passes and his crossing was poor throughout the contest. 4
Harry Souttar: – Extraordinary performance from the Stoke City defender. Started the move that lead to the opener with a brilliant long pass and never looked back after that. Made a crucial block to deny Tunisia a goal and was a real colossus in the air throughout the 90 minutes, winning absolutely everything that came his way. 10
Kye Rowles: – A worthy partner for Souttar, Rowles did a decent job defensively, making a total of 10 clearances, four interceptions, and winning 75% of his aerial duels. Solid performance. 7
Aziz Behich: – Allowed Mooy to do his thing by inverting in possession and defended well without the ball. Had a few shaky moments but grew with the game and didn’t allow any dangerous attacks down his side. 6
Aaron Mooy: – The conductor. Mooy ran the show in midfield from his deep position, with his progressive passing being very important for the way they built up from the back. Showed that he’s still a very capable player at the highest level. 8
Jackson Irvine: – Started really strong and covered every blade of grass in midfield. Combined well with Mooy in midfield and helped the back line, tracking back at every possible moment. 7
Riley McGree: – His inclusion ahead of the reportedly “fit” Hrustic raised some eyebrows before the start of the game, but truth be told, McGree was excellent for the majority of the game. Worked very hard alongside Duke and helped his team defend from the front. 6
Mathew Leckie: – Leckie gave it his absolute all to the point where he ran himself to the ground. Pressed, tackled, dribbled, won duels, made everything in his power to win the game for his nation. A real leader on the pitch. 8
Craig Goodwin: – The Adelaide United captain continues to shine at the highest stage. Goodwin was a real threat down the left-hand side, creating two chances for his teammates and completing 6 passes into the final third. 7
Mitchell Duke: – Solid candidate for the MOTM award. Duke opened the scoring for the ‘Roos with a perfectly placed header and lead the line superbly. His link-up play, movement without the ball, and aerial presence were crucial for the result. 9
Substitutes
Ajdin Hrustic: – Did well after coming on for McGree and showed glimpses of what he’s capable of. Will be hoping to show more in the next game. 6
Jamie Maclaren: – Maclaren didn’t get much chance to play with the ball after coming on as Tunisia started to dominate. Made only 10 touches and struggled to influence the play. 5
Milos Degenek: – Slotted into the back four superbly, helping Souttar and Rowles in the air, making three clearances, and winning all of his ground duels. 7
Awer Mabil: – N/A
Keanu Baccus: – N/A
