Shock Brazil draw a sure sign Socceroos have learnt from World Cup mistakes
The Socceroos were denied their first win over Brazil since 2001 after Rayan equalised for the Seleção with only seconds left on the clock.
Socceroos coach Tony Popovic reflected on the result post-match stating that there were many positives to take from the result and performance.
Nestory Irankunda celebrating his goal in the Socceroos’ friendly against Brazil. Getty Images
“I think it’s maybe a sign of progress if we are a bit disappointed and I think the dressing room’s a bit quiet,” Popovic said.
Here are 5 key talking points from the game
Nestory Irankunda
Nestory Irankunda’s performance was outstanding on the night, and he yet again showed why he is one of the Socceroos brightest talents.
His superb free kick which nestled into the top-left corner gave Brazilian keeper Hugo Souza no chance while his pace with and without the ball troubled the Brazilian defence all evening.
Irankunda’s directness was evident from the opening whistle as an early warning shot which tested the hand of Souza provided a taste of what was to come.
Socceroos defence
The defensive performance from the Socceroos back line was exceptional despite conceding at the death.
Lucas Herrington once again showcased a maturity far beyond his years as he took the challenge of facing the likes of Vinicious Jnr and Raphina in his stride.
Alongside Herrington, Harry Souttar provided a physical presence with some last-ditch interceptions denying the Brazlians throughout the contest.
Alessandro Circati was also his usual classy self as his composed performance helped the Socceroos deny the glittering stars of Brazil any space.
Townsville turf
The quality of the pitch raised some eyebrows with Brazilian coach Carlo Ancelotti critical of the surface post-game.
Queensland Country Bank Stadium is the home ground of the North Queensland Cowboys in the NRL and NRLW, but had not hosted a fixture since a double-header on September 5.
Herrington making a desperate play as Raphael Dias Belloli has a shot at goal. Getty Images
Despite three weeks of respite, the surface was slippery and showed visual signs of deterioration throughout the night.
“The pitch … it was difficult to play on a pitch like this. And we hope to have a better pitch for the next game,” said Ancelotti.
Popovic did not disagree with Ancelotti’s assessment, but accepted football is not the dominant code in Australia and unfortunately the sharing of grounds with multiple codes is a reality.
“I remember some qualifying games where the pitch wasn’t good, that we played at home. It’s something that we’re accustomed to,” Popovic added.
Vini Jnr form struggles
Vinicius Jnr’s early season form struggles continued as his inability to showcase the searing pace and creativity which has become synonymous with his game was a non-factor against the Socceroos.
Vini Jnr was largely ineffective. Getty Images
Glimpses of his true ability threatened to break the game open but overall, the Socceroos kept him at bay.
His inability to produce game-breaking moments is starting to become more and more of a concern for both Real Madrid and Brazil.
Brazilian fans can only hope we see the real Vini Jnr on Tuesday night at Suncorp Stadium.
Brave Socceroos
Much of the criticism following the Socceroos’ World Cup campaign was that Popovic and his team were not brave enough to attack games when the opportunity presented itself.
This criticism though cannot be thrown at the Socceroos after their performance against Brazil where they looked to play out from the back and press Brazil in possession where possible.
For Socceroos fans, this blueprint is one that they will hope can continue not only in the second match against Brazil but also the Asian Cup next year.
