The Socceroos have kept their World Cup campaign alive with a 1-0 win over Tunisia courtesy of a classy header from Mitch Duke in the 23rd minute.
Although Duke netted the eventual winner, Australia could have easily been two goals behind if not for some heroics from Harry Souttar in defence. The imposing defender put his body on the line the stop what looked to be certain goals from the Tunisian attack.
Australia dominated in the opening stages, putting Tunisia on the back foot and limiting any chance of a counterattack in the process.
After 20 minutes of consistent pressure, the Socceroos opened the scoring after a deflected cross from Craig Goodwin found Duke who brilliantly headed the chance home.
What a header from @mitchduke8 😳
— Socceroos (@Socceroos) November 26, 2022
The eighth Australian to score at the @FIFAWorldCup!#Socceroos #GiveIt100 #FIFAWorldCup
pic.twitter.com/naPHUEDRf0
Tunisia began to find their footing in the game during the late stages of the first half and came agonisingly close to levelling the score on a couple of occasions.
The Socceroos went into the halftime break up by a goal but with plenty to play for in the final 45 minutes.
Tunisia continued to apply the pressure in the second half but lacked a clinical touch when in the final third.
Australia looked lifeless in attack throughout stages in the second half but had their hopes kept alive by the hard work of Aaron Mooy in the centre of the park.
The Socceroos had a couple of chances to seal the result in the final stages of the game with Matthew Leckie and Awer Mabil both missing clear-cut opportunities in the box.
Australia held on in the final minutes clearing any ball in sight and putting everyone back desperately trying to stop any attack from Tunisia.
TWELVE. YEARS.
— Socceroos (@Socceroos) November 26, 2022
THREE. POINTS.
THESE. BLOKES.#TUN 0-1 #AUS | #FIFAWorldCup #GiveIt100 #Socceroos pic.twitter.com/aspxIrW9UE
The Socceroos now enter a crucial matchup against Denmark on Thursday morning needing a win or draw to confirm qualification to the Round of 16.
SEN will broadcast every game of this year’s FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Tournament. Socceroos legend Archie Thompson will lead the SEN call team with all games live on SEN and the SEN App.