Socceroos seek to build on newfound momentum in crunch clash with Saudi Arabia
Crunch clash ahead
The Socceroos will be looking to build on their newfound momentum when they take on Saudi Arabia in a crucial World Cup qualifier on Thursday night. Graham Arnold's side has won their last two matches, against China and Vietnam, and will be confident of making it three in a row against the Saudis.
Saudi Arabia is one of the strongest teams in Asia, but the Socceroos have a good record against them, having won four of their last five meetings. The Socceroos will be without key players Mat Ryan and Aaron Mooy, but they have a strong squad and will be confident of getting a result.
High stakes
The match is a must-win for both teams, as they are both level on points at the top of Group B. A win for the Socceroos would see them move into outright first place, while a win for Saudi Arabia would see them leapfrog the Socceroos into top spot.
The match will be played at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, and it will be televised live on Fox Sports.
Australia's recent form
The Socceroos have been in good form in recent months, having won their last two matches against China and Vietnam. They have also drawn their last two matches against Japan and Oman.
The Socceroos have a strong squad, with a good mix of youth and experience. They will be confident of getting a result against Saudi Arabia, but they will need to be at their best to overcome one of the strongest teams in Asia.
Saudi Arabia's recent form
Saudi Arabia has also been in good form in recent months, having won their last two matches against Yemen and Palestine. They have also drawn their last two matches against Japan and Oman.
Saudi Arabia has a strong squad, with a number of players who play in Europe's top leagues. They will be confident of getting a result against Australia, but they will need to be at their best to overcome one of the strongest teams in Asia.
Key match-ups
There are a number of key match-ups to watch out for in the match between Australia and Saudi Arabia.
- Mathew Leckie vs. Yasser Al-Shahrani: Leckie is one of Australia's most dangerous players, while Al-Shahrani is one of Saudi Arabia's best defenders. This will be a key battle in the match.
- Aaron Mooy vs. Salem Al-Dawsari: Mooy is Australia's playmaker, while Al-Dawsari is Saudi Arabia's captain. This will be a key battle in midfield.
- Trent Sainsbury vs. Fahad Al-Muwallad: Sainsbury is Australia's captain, while Al-Muwallad is Saudi Arabia's leading scorer. This will be a key battle in the air.
Prediction
The match between Australia and Saudi Arabia is a close one to call. Both teams are in good form, and they both have strong squads.
However, the Socceroos have a good record against Saudi Arabia, and they will be confident of getting a result. I predict that the Socceroos will win the match 2-1.
