Australia got their World Cup qualifying campaign off to the perfect start with a 2-0 victory over Iraq at NIB Stadium in Perth.
Massimo Luongo opened the scoring in the second half from close-range after a well-delivered low cross from Tomi Juric, who missed a glorious opportunity moments earlier.
The FC Luzern forward found the back of the net himself following a clever flick-on from Mark Milligan to seal the result for Ange Postecoglou’s side.
Player Ratings
Mat Ryan – 6.5: Largely untroubled for most of the night, but was on hand to sniff out any danger that the opposition presented. Showed good composure with the ball at his feet.
Milos Degenek – 6: Worked hard up and down the touchline throughout the night providing the width in attack. Showed composure defensively sticking to his task and limiting the influence of Iraq’s wingers.
Mark Milligan – 7.5: The result could have been completely different if not for a desperate challenge from the former Melbourne Victory man in the first half. A diligent performance.
Trent Sainsbury – 7: As reliable as ever, in the right place at the right time on numerous occasions. Distributed well and looked comfortable alongside Milligan.
Brad Smith – 6: Experienced a nervy start with a number of loose touches in the early exchanges. Did some nice things going forward putting a couple of dangerous crosses into the box without a final product.
Mile Jedinak – 6: A mixed night for the Socceroos skipper who gave the ball away cheaply on a number of occasions. Better in the second half. Had a big chance to convert after the Iraqi keeper misjudged an Aaron Mooy corner.
Massimo Luongo – 7: Despite scoring, the QPR midfielder was not at his best, but improved after the break.
Aaron Mooy – 6.5: The focal point in the home side’s midfield. Had a number of chances from set-pieces, one which led to the second goal but still remain an area for improvement heading into the next match. Booked early but was disciplined thereafter.
Tom Rogic – 6.5: Struggled with the Iraqi press early, but grew into the game as it opened up with the visitors chasing a result. Rogic showed if given time and space he has the ability to break open the opposition defence.
Matthew Leckie – 7.5: Deployed in an unfamiliar striker’s position. Worked hard throughout the night putting himself into dangerous attacking positions. Unlucky to have not scored in the opening half seeing his header hit the post.
Tomi Juric – 8: Missed a clear cut opportunity from close range, quickly made amends setting up Luongo for the opener before finding the back of the net himself. Promising performance.
Substitutes
Robbie Kruse – 5: Bought into the game midway through the second half and showed glimpses of his quality.
Jackson Irvine – 5: Brought on to close out the match and did his job.
Apostolos Giannou- N/A: Limited time to make an impact.
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