Match Report
The Subway Socceroos have defeated Indonesia 5-1 in front of over 35,000 fans at Sydney Football Stadium to secure an all-important three points in the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Third Round Asian Qualifiers.
Jackson Irvine scored a brace while Martin Boyle, Nishan Velupillay and Lewis Miller were also on the scoresheet as the Socceroos were clinical when it mattered.
The result - against a spirited Indonesia - means that Australia will remain second in Group C for another match, keeping their noses in front in the race for automatic World Cup qualification.
There were six changes to the starting eleven that last lined up for the Socceroos in November, reflecting the broader changes to the squad. Adam Taggart, Martin Boyle and Nishan Velupillay came in up top, Aiden O’Neill lined up in midfield, while Kye Rowles and Jason Geria started in the heart of defence.
It was a first start in Green and Gold for Velupillay, earned after his recent goalscoring form at club level with Melbourne Victory.
Indonesia showed the type of quality early in the game that belied their FIFA ranking of 127. They were aggressive on the ball and looked to take the game to the Socceroos. Maty Ryan was soon called into action, tipping the ball over the crossbar after a header from captain Jay Noah Idzes.
The visitors had a golden opportunity to score first when they won a penalty in the 7th minute. Kevin Diks was not able to convert, however, hitting his effort against the post.
