Doha: Australia won the decisive match in Group D of Qatar World Cup. Australia defeated Tunisia, known as the Eagles of Carthage, 1-0. Australia’s Socceroos took a step towards victory by holding on following a one-goal lead in the firefight held at Al Janob Stadium.
Described as a battle of equals, the Tunisia-Australia clash was rich in valor and swagger. The match was not as boring as the score card suggested. Both the teams, who were determined to win, fought hard in the first end. But the excellence in defense gave victory to Australia.
In the 23rd minute, Australia took a one-nil lead when Mitchell Duke’s header hit the net. The Kangaroos’ first goal was from Goodwin’s cross. After the first goal, they focused on defense, but they constantly raked the Tunisian goal. On the other hand, Tunisia is in a fight for a goal.
Tunisia created several good chances but might not get the ball into the net. Captain Youssef Masakni and leading player Issam Jabali were the ones who planned the Tunisian moves. The combined efforts of Mitchell Duke, Matthew Lakey, Goodwin and goalkeeper Matthew Ryan kept the Tunisian attacks at bay.
Aaron Mooy excelled in midfield for Australia. If you look at the statistics of the game, Tunisia is ahead. They own 58 percent position and 76 percent pass accuracy. But they might not convert any of this into a goal. Mohamed Dragar’s excellent shot blocked by Soutar also made the first half eventful. Defender Maria Yass excelled for Tunisia.
Both teams made several substitutions towards the end of the game, but nothing came of it. Coach Jalilal Qadiri’s experiment by withdrawing Tunisian superstar Issam Jabali in the 70th minute and dropping Fabi Khasri was also unsuccessful. The Tunisian forwards weaved together some good moves but were thwarted by goalkeeper Ryan and the towering Soutar in defence.
