With two games left in this stage of qualifying the Socceroos are already assured of progression to the next round. However, the job is not done yet as they will be targeting victory in both games for both personal and professional reasons.
It starts on Thursday night in Adelaide with a game against Tajikistan, as part of a double header over the Easter Weekend.
Previous meeting
In September, the Socceroos travelled to Dushanbe and won 3-0 thanks to goals from Mark Milligan and a late double from Tim Cahill. It was not a straightforward win though, as the Tajik side came after the visitors with some swift counter-attacks. Milligan scored the opener just after halftime, getting onto the end of Aaron Mooy’s corner, while Cahill’s late brace put the result beyond doubt.
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Late squad changes
There have been two changes to the original squad named by Ange Postecoglou, with Terry Antonis and Matthew Spiranovic withdrawing due to injury. In comes Brisbane Roar’s Matt McKay and Melbourne City’s Alex Wilkinson to provide some veteran experience for the side. While he could come in and play 180 minutes if needed, especially since he will join the camp at the same time as everyone else, McKay is likely to feature off the bench as a late game substitute. Spiranovic was a likely starter and leaves a bigger hole to fill. Wilkinson is a more than capable replacement and can step in to fill the void if needed.
Tactical Approach
In the first meeting the Socceroos were the more aggressive of the two sides, constantly pressing high up the pitch but getting caught out on the counter. This game will follow a similar script with the Australians looking to put on a show for the Adelaide crowd. The key will be to make sure that they get on the board in the first half to try and force the Tajikistan to chase the game.
Projected Lineup
History says that the Socceroos will go with an attacking lineup in this game to win it. Mat Ryan will get the start in goal, while local boy Ryan McGowan starts with Josh Rison at full back. The central pairing of Bailey Wright and Trent Sainsbury will stave off the competition of Wilkinson. Mile Jedinak is the lone holding-midfielder while Mooy, Massimo Luongo and Tom Rogic will direct the attack. As is the case with most home games the team will go with two strikers up top in Cahill and recent defection Aspostolos Giannou.
Socceroos expected starting XI: Ryan (GK); McGowan, Wright, Sainsbury, Risdon; Jedinak (C); Mooy, Luongo, Rogic; Cahill, Giannou
Player to Watch – Tom Rogic
After scoring a stunner for Celtic on the weekend, the crowd will be hoping he can find his national confidence.
Prediction
Much like in Dushanbe the Socceroos will have too much for the Tajikistan side and emerge comfortable winners. Look for a debut goal for Giannou if he makes it on the pitch as well.
Australia 4 Tajikistan 0
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