Socceroos Game Plan Exposed Ahead of Saudi Clash
Socceroos game plan exposed ahead of Saudi clash as Australia look to secure their place at the 2026 World Cup in their final group match against Saudi Arabia. With qualification almost within reach, Daniel Arzani believes the Socceroos are well-positioned to take advantage of the spaces the Saudis are likely to leave behind. Australia, currently sitting second in Group C behind Japan, only need to avoid a heavy defeat specifically by five goals or more to punch their ticket to next year’s tournament.
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Last week’s dramatic 1-0 victory over Japan, sealed with a late winner, has left the Australians on the brink of qualification. Their final hurdle comes in Jeddah, where they’ll face a desperate Saudi Arabia side coached by Herve Renard. The Saudis are third in the group and must secure a win alongside a significant goal-difference swing to have any chance of progressing. Arzani, speaking on the Socceroos’ website, noted the contrasting styles between Japan and Saudi Arabia, emphasizing that the next match would present a very different tactical scenario.
Arzani expects Saudi Arabia to come out aggressively, opening up space that Australia can exploit. “It’s just natural there’ll be more space going forward,” he said. “But we need to stay disciplined defensively and not give them a sniff.” With the Saudis needing a big result, Arzani believes their offensive push could backfire if Australia capitalizes on the counterattack.
Preparation has been key for the Socceroos, especially in dealing with the intense Middle Eastern heat. Players who didn’t participate in the A-League finals have already spent two weeks in Abu Dhabi acclimatizing, and the entire squad has been undergoing sauna sessions to adapt. Arzani insists the heat is challenging but manageable.
After missing the 2022 World Cup due to injury, Arzani is relishing his current involvement under new coach Tony Popovic. He called his return to the fold and active role in qualification “special,” especially as it’s his first time contributing during the qualification stages. “Being part of this process and seeing the dedication and pressure involved makes it all the more meaningful,” he said. “It’s been a real eye-opener and an experience I’m truly enjoying.”
