Australia v Uzbekistan scores, teams, time, fixtures, tickets, odds

Both teams had eight shots. Both teams had one shot on target. The possession was pretty evenly split. Uzbekistan defended tightly but were more expansive in possession than both India and Syria combined and still the Socceroos had a tough time penetrating. It was a little static. There were a few too many touches, and not enough creativity. Granted, Arnold made five changes for this match to rest some legs and give Yengi a chance to play. I do want to see what Fornaroli might be able to do with a start if he is given one in the round of 16, especially if Duke is not fit to return yet.

Speaking of the round of 16, Australia will play one of the best third-placed teams on Sunday at 10.30pm AEDT. Ostensibly that means the opponent will not be so difficult, but you can bet if that’s the case they will park the bus to try and push it to extra-time and penalties. It is hard to complain…