Australia's national soccer team, the Socceroos, find themselves in a precarious position halfway through the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with familiar scoring issues resurfacing to haunt their campaign. Their inability to convert chances was on full display during a frustrating 0-0 draw against Saudi Arabia in Melbourne on Thursday.
Despite dominating the match with 13 shots to the Saudis' three, the Australians failed to break the deadlock. The game highlighted their offensive struggles, as several golden opportunities went begging. The visitors nearly snatched victory in stoppage time, only to be denied by a marginal offside call.
The draw leaves Australia in second place in Group C, level on six points with Saudi Arabia and China but ahead on goal difference. Group leaders Japan continue to set the pace, while Bahrain lingers in fifth after a 1-0 defeat to China.
Goodwin's Return Offers Hope
Australia will travel to Bahrain on Tuesday with high hopes for a turnaround, bolstered by the return of winger Craig Goodwin. Goodwin, sidelined against Saudi Arabia due to consecutive yellow cards, has been a pivotal figure in the squad. His creativity and finishing ability were sorely missed in Melbourne, as the Socceroos struggled to find a clinical edge in the final third.
"Craig brings a lot to our attack. His vision and goal-scoring ability could make a huge difference in tight matches like these," said coach Tony Popovic.
A History of Missed Opportunities
Australia’s scoring woes are not new. They were a defining feature of their 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign, where they narrowly secured a spot in Qatar through the playoffs. With the expansion of the 2026 World Cup to 48 teams granting Asia four additional qualification spots, fans might have expected a smoother ride this time. However, Australia’s inability to convert chances into goals remains a significant hurdle.
Thursday’s match offered painful reminders of this long-standing issue. Early in the game, centre-back Harry Souttar blasted a shot over the bar from just six yards out. Playmaker Ajdin Hrustic and substitute Brandon Borrello squandered one-on-one opportunities, while captain Jackson Irvine added to the frustration by firing over the bar near halftime.
Starting striker Mitchell Duke’s extended goal drought only deepened the concerns, leaving fans and analysts questioning whether the team has the firepower to succeed in crucial fixtures.
Popovic's Rebuilding Task
Since taking over from Graham Arnold in September following a shock 1-0 loss to Bahrain and a goalless draw against Indonesia, new coach Tony Popovic has been working to rebuild the squad. While the team remains unbeaten under his leadership in three matches, the lack of goals in their last two games highlights the challenges he faces.
Popovic’s tactical adjustments and focus on ball movement have shown promise, with players like Irvine insisting that the team is progressing.
"You can see we're making progress," said Irvine after the Saudi match. "The changes we've made and the football we're trying to play shine through at key moments."
Still, progress without results on the scoreboard is unlikely to ease the pressure as the Socceroos prepare for their next challenge against Bahrain, a team that stunned them 1-0 on home soil just two months ago.
Crucial Match Ahead
Australia cannot afford another misstep on Tuesday if they hope to secure one of the top two spots in Group C and avoid the dreaded playoff route. Bahrain, despite their position in the standings, have proven they can be dangerous opponents.
A win in Bahrain would not only boost the Socceroos’ qualifying hopes but also restore some much-needed confidence in their attacking capabilities. With Goodwin back in the fold and a squad eager to redeem themselves, the match promises to be a critical test of Popovic's tenure and the team's resilience.
The road to the 2026 World Cup remains fraught with challenges, but for Australia, the solution is simple yet elusive: they must find a way to turn chances into goals.
