Australia 1 Paraguay 1: A Disappointing End

With only minutes to go last night, the Socceroos seemed to have clinched victory with a late Tony Popovic header from a set piece. The retiring centre-back was then substituted for Michael Beauchamp whose only touch erased the Socceroos advantage; heading the ball into the Australian net at the death.

Throughout the game there was barely a decent shot on goal by the Australians. The highlight of the first half was a lovely run by Stan Lazaridis that left two Paraguayan defenders for dead. Unfortunately his pull-back narrowly missed the two Australians joining the attack from midfield.

Second-half drives by Grella and Culina flattered to deceive as they flew well wide of the far post while Bresciano stuck tamely into the keeper’s arms when the ball fell kindly for him inside the box.

Despite the wealth of possession and the control the Socceroos exerted over the Paraguayans they again looked like they lacked the teeth to win the match. Archie Thompson’s introduction was the turning point with his pace, energy and trickery lifting Australia’s game. Indeed, he won the free-kick from which Poppa headed home.

Poppa’s joy was obvious but then came the unfortunate goal by Beauchamp. It would appear that Schwarzer was at fault as it was duty to call the ball his own as he came off his line, yet none seems to have been made. Poor Beauchamp’s name ends up on the score sheet though.

A decent game by the Socceroos however their lack of creativity and chances overshadowed a dominant performance possession-wise.

Farewell Poppa, Laz, Spider and Tony “Dry your eyes mate” Vidmar. We will miss you all.