Australia secured a vital away win with a 1-0 victory, defeating the UAE in stiflingly hot conditions at the Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi.
Tim Cahill put the Socceroos ahead in the 71st minute with his first touch of the match, helping his team to secure a crucial victory on the road to Russia.
Player Ratings
Mat Ryan – 6.5: Showed his class with a few smart saves, and survived a late barrage of pressure. Not overly tested throughout.
Ryan McGowan – 5.5: Troubled by the direct running and pace of the UAE attack at times, but redeemed himself with a goal-saving tackle in the second half. Fighter.
Trent Sainsbury – 7: Made a number of crucial interceptions and was great aerially. Smart performance.
Matthew Spiranovic – 7: Distributed with ease despite the heat, and like Sainsbury, was on hand to consistently deny the UAE attack. Composed.
Brad Smith – 7: Will be remembered for his match-winning assist, but this was a great all-round performance. Bright future.
Mark Milligan – 7.5: Moved back to midfield after being deployed in defence against Iraq. His aggressive midfield play kept its edge despite being booked early on. Played a big part in stifling Omar Abdulrahman.
Aaron Mooy – 7.5: His tight work in close was crucial to the Socceroos’ plans of retaining possession. Looks a fitter, sharper player since moving to Huddersfield.
Tom Rogic – 6: Lacked his usual polish, but still presented a consistent goal threat. Replaced in the 63rd minute.
REVIEW | Who else but Timmy? He's handed @Socceroos a priceless win | #UAEvAUS #GoSocceroos https://t.co/aONNcAWuGS
— Outside90 (@Outside90) September 6, 2016
Robbie Kruse – 5: Worked rather hard on the night as he focused on pressuring the UAE defence. Faded badly before being substituted, but will improve as he gains match fitness.
Tomi Juric – 5.5: Attempted to hold up play and work himself into the match yet was rarely sighted in tough conditions. Subbed for Cahill in the 71st minute.
Matt Leckie – 6: Like Kruse, Leckie helped to pin back the opposition full-back with smart running. Carved out some decent opportunities with sheer determination.
Substitutes
Massimo Luongo – 6.5: Came on in the 64th minute for Rogic and was influential in the lead up to the match winning goal. Played his role well.
Tim Cahlll – 8: The goalmouth predator proved his worth, scoring within five minutes of being substituted on. Instinctive.
Nathan Burns – N/A: Brought on in injury time.
WATCH | Tim Cahill seals a famous win 1-0 for the #Socceroos away to #UAE #UAEvAUS #GoSocceroos #WCQ2018 https://t.co/Pl1VuJVLGh
— Outside90 (@Outside90) September 6, 2016
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