Match Report
The Socceroos have made history, advancing to the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup for the second time in Australian football history with a plucky 1-0 triumph over Denmark at Al Janoub Stadium on Thursday morning (AEDT).
Mathew Leckie’s solitary goal on the hour mark sealed the Socceroos’ passage to the last 16 for the first time since 2006, with an incredible six points - our highest-ever points tally - to finish second behind France on goal difference in Group D.
With France losing 1-0 to Tunisia, the Socceroos had to win to qualify for the knockout stages.
It is also the first instance Australia has won consecutive games at the FIFA World Cup.
Going into the match Australia controlled its destiny, and instead of relying on other results or playing for the draw, the Aussies ultimately took matters into their own hands.
Graham Arnold made just the one personnel change to the starting XI with Milos Degenek replacing Fran Karacic at right-back.
Meanwhile, Mathew Ryan and Leckie joined Tim Cahill and Mark Bresciano on a record-equalling ninth FIFA World Cup appearance with the Socceroos.
Ryan produced a sharp save at his near post to tip over Mathias Jensen’s stinging strike as Denmark began the contest on the front foot.
Australia had to absorb a substantial amount of pressure from the 10th-ranked nation, though did have a handful of opportunities to break quickly but lacked quality on the final pass.
Riley McGree tried a speculative shot on the half-volley from a header down by Mitch Duke, however it was straight at Kasper Schmeichel.
