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A vital AFC World Cup qualifying third-round clash awaits as Australia host Saudi Arabia at AAMI Park in Melbourne on Thursday, November 14, 2024. The Socceroos, fresh under the leadership of Tony Popovic, look to extend their unbeaten streak to three matches, while Herve Renard’s Saudi Arabia aim to kickstart their campaign after a disappointing October. This match promises high stakes as both teams vie for a crucial three points that could shape their path to World Cup qualification.

Match Analysis

Australia’s Resurgence Under Popovic

Australia entered the third round of World Cup qualifiers under the cloud of inconsistency, leading to a managerial change in September. Graham Arnold’s exit paved the way for Tony Popovic, who has injected fresh energy into the squad. Popovic’s reign started on a high with a commanding 3-1 win over China in Adelaide, where Craig Goodwin, a local favourite, and young talent Nishan Velupillay played pivotal roles.

Their momentum continued with a solid performance against Japan in Saitama. Despite a 1-1 draw, the Socceroos showed resilience, highlighted by strong defensive displays from Cameron Burgess and Harry Souttar. The latter’s partnership with Burgess has become a key pillar for Australia, who currently sit second in Group C, trailing only Japan.

A victory against Saudi Arabia would solidify their standing and provide a significant boost ahead of the international break. With a strong home record against Saudi Arabia, including a memorable goalless draw in 2021, Australia are favourites to build on their recent positive results.

Saudi Arabia’s Struggles and New Beginnings

Saudi Arabia’s qualifying campaign has been marred by inconsistency and managerial upheaval. Roberto Mancini’s sudden departure in October, after just over a year in charge, left the team in disarray. However, the return of Herve Renard, the coach who guided them to a historic World Cup win against Argentina in 2022, has brought renewed optimism.

Renard’s first task will be to address the Green Falcons’ recent attacking woes. Saudi Arabia failed to score in their last two matches, including a frustrating 0-0 draw against Bahrain, where Salem Al-Dawsari’s missed penalty proved costly. Without their injured captain Al-Dawsari, and facing a resolute Australian defence, Renard’s side will need to find new sources of creativity and firepower.

Despite their current third-place standing in Group C, level on points with both Australia and Bahrain, Saudi Arabia remain hopeful of a turnaround. A win in Melbourne could reignite their campaign and lift them into the automatic qualification spots.

Team News and Possible Lineups

Australia Team News

Australia will likely field a strong lineup, featuring several players who ply their trade in Europe. Harry Souttar and Cameron Burgess are expected to anchor the defence, providing stability and aerial prowess. Riley McGree’s creativity in midfield will be crucial, while Craig Goodwin offers pace and finishing ability on the wing.

Nashville SC’s Patrick Yazbek could replace Luke Brattan in midfield, following the latter’s early substitution against Japan due to injury. With key players like Mathew Leckie and Martin Boyle unavailable, Australia will rely on the likes of Ajdin Hrustic and Mitch Duke for attacking thrust.

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Australia possible starting lineup:
Gauci; Geria, Souttar, Burgess; Miller, Yazbek, Irvine, Bos; McGree, Hrustic, Duke

Saudi Arabia Team News

Saudi Arabia will be without their talismanic captain Salem Al-Dawsari due to a foot injury, a significant blow for Renard’s plans. The Green Falcons will also miss the services of Abdulelah Al Amri and midfielder Abdulelah Al Malki, both sidelined through injury.

Renard may look to the young trio of Nawaf Al-Aqidi, Nasser Al-Dawsari, and Firas Al-Buraikan to step up in the absence of senior players. Al Buraikan, in particular, will be key in spearheading the attack, while the experienced Yasir Al-Shahrani is expected to marshal the backline.

Saudi Arabia possible starting lineup:
Al Kassar; Hamed, Tambakti, Lajami, Kadesh; Alkhaibari, N Al Dawsari, Al Asmari; Yahya, Radif, Maran

Prediction and Betting Tips

With Australia enjoying a strong home record and showing improved form under Tony Popovic, they head into this clash as favourites. However, the tactical nous of Herve Renard cannot be underestimated, especially given his past success with the Saudi team.

Prediction:
Goal.mu/Mauri.bet predicts: Australia 2-1 Saudi Arabia.

Justification:
Australia’s recent defensive solidity and Saudi Arabia’s injury woes tip the scales in favour of the Socceroos. While the Green Falcons have shown resilience, the absence of their key playmaker Al-Dawsari may hinder their attacking output.

Betting Markets and Tips:

• Both Teams to Score: Yes. Despite Australia’s defensive strength, Saudi Arabia are likely to find the net through set pieces or counter-attacks.
• Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over 2.5 goals. Australia’s attacking options and Saudi Arabia’s need to push for points should result in a high-scoring affair.
• HotStat: Australia have won four of their last five World Cup qualifiers at home, scoring at least two goals in each victory.

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