Australia

History on Socceroos’ side but high-flying Saudi Arabia aim for change in narrative | John Duerden

09-Nov-2021 23:06:58 | Guardian

Despite missing some key players, the Green Falcons are confident ahead of the crucial World Cup qualifier in Sydney

Last month’s defeat to Japannot only cost the Socceroos top spot in Group B of qualification for the 2022 World Cup, but also the mantle of Asia’s form team. Both were transferred to Saudi Arabia, who have arrived in Sydney ahead of Thursday’s crunch clash three points clear and on a run of eight successive victories on the road to Qatar. No wonder then the Green Falcons are soaring with self-belief.

“We have beaten stronger teams than Australia, and with the current group of players we are able to return from there with full points,” said Saudi defender Ahmed Sharahili on Sunday. There is still an understanding that this is the toughest test of the year but after the win over Japan last month, five days before the Samurai Blue headed back home to beat the Socceroos, a first victory over Australia for 24 years and the first outside Riyadh really would really be something to celebrate.