Match Report
The Socceroos blew China away in a devastating 16 minute spell with superstar striker Tim Cahill scoring twice - including a candidate for goal of the tournament - to win their Asian Cup quarter-final 2-0 at Brisbane Stadium on Thursday night.
The victory sets up an Asian Cup semi-final next Tuesday in Newcastle against either Japan or the UAE.
After his world-class goal at the World Cup in Brazil against Holland, Cahill did it again with a moment of genius to prize open the stubborn Chinese just after the break.
An unbelievable bicycle kick with his back to goal will go down as one of Australia’s great goals. And vital too after the Chinese had shown they are a rising force under coach Alain Perrin.
A trademark powerful header by Cahill sealed the victory on 65 minutes and doused a stubborn Chinese side who showed plenty of fight in front of their many fans.
Entering the pitch to light rain and thunderous noise from both sets of fans, the scene was set for an Asian Cup classic.
The Socceroos were back in their green and gold kit while China sported a stylish all white with red trim.
The Aussies had a fresh look about them too with Mark Bresciano in for his first start of the Asian Cup and skipper Mile Jedinak back from injury.
Alex Wilkinson was in for the suspended Matt Spiranovic, Robbie Kruse came back into the starting XI and Jason Davidson won the left-back battle.
It was a nervy opening for Australia as China rose to the occasion in front of their loud fans, numbering roughly half the 52,000 seat Brisbane Stadium.
