Dushanbe is the setting for the Socceroos’ next step on the road to Russia as they take on football minnows Tajikistan.
Thursday night’s match in Perth could not have gone any better for the Socceroos. A comfortable 5-0 win over Bangladesh and no major injuries gave Ange Postecoglu exactly what he wanted. Now they turn their attention to the second game of this international window, which sees them travel to Tajikistan for their third game of the qualifying campaign.
Their opponents have played two games so far, both in June, losing 3-1 at home to Jordan before drawing 1-1 in Bangladesh. They will be fresh and eager to get a victory at home as they try to keep in touch with the top of the group.
Changes in Conditions
Tajikistan is not the easiest place to get travel, especially from Perth. The Socceroos have been forced to travel a long way to get to Dushanbe, but the travelling appears to have gone on without any major delays.
On the ground, there are concerns about the security surrounding the game with clashes late last week causing some concern about the match but recent reports suggest the tension has eased somewhat. There will be a major change in the weather as well, going from the mild climate in Perth to temperatures around 30° celsius in the Northwest Asian nation.
The game will also be played on an artificial pitch which will be a big adjustment for many players; many of which have never set foot on fake turf in a competitive setting. The bounce of the ball will be much more varied and the players will have to make sure they pick the right boots to handle the conditions on the ground.
Tactical Adjustments
Playing at home against Bangladesh, Australia came out with a desire to entertain and attack. They took the foot off the accelerator in the second half perhaps with an eye on this game. Playing on the road and on the aforementioned artificial surface, Postecoglou’s men may look for a more aerial approach and rely on their best attacker to lead the way in a trademark 4-2-3-1 formation. The two holding midfielders will help screen in front of the defenders but will have the freedom to get forward to contribute in attack.
Expected Lineup
Much of the team that lined up against Bangladesh will keep their place in the starting XI. However, Mathew Leckie is likely to move out to right-wing to accommodate the inclusion of Tim Cahill while Matthew Spiranovic is in doubt with illness. Alex Wilkinson is likely to replace him.
The left side of the defence could change with Aziz Behich likely to come in for Jason Davidson. In midfield, Mark Milligan is likely to be partnered by Luke Brattan who excelled in a defensive role with Brisbane Roar. This should allow Milligan the freedom to roam if the Socceroos go on the attack.
Matt McKay is in line to replace Tom Rogic, who still requires management after his lengthy injury troubles.
Player to Watch – Mark Milligan
The stand-in skipper was impressive in his hour on the field in Perth, passing at an incredible 95% success rate and will need to be similarly solid again, shielding the back four and pulling the strings in midfield.
Prediction
It will not be the walk in the park Australia enjoyed against Bangladesh, however, the Socceroos should still make it three from three in this qualifying campaign. Playing at home should give Tajikistan plenty of motivation to go out and take it to the Asian champions but the quality should win out in the end.
Tajikistan 1 Australia 3
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