Asian Cup - Australia vs Japan

The disappointment. I knew that Australia wasn't playing well, but I still hoped they would pull out a miracle like in the world cup. Kin, Paul and I went to Glen Waverley to watch the match. There was quite a good turn out, considering it is only the Asian Cup and soccer is still a small sport in the country. But it is gaining momentum and people are starting to be captured by it.

To the actual match, Australia were outplayed for most part of the match. Their goal was a good goal from a corner kick, but they let all that hard work go to waste when they let Japan reply almost immediately. I still hadn't stopped celebrating yet and was making phone calls when Japan alreayd replied. The Australian team consisted of the same members as the World Cup squad, but they just seemed to lack cohesion and firepower. I guess a good coach does make a big difference.

Australia did their best to hold onto from draw despite a Japanese onslaught in extra time. However, they couldn't grab the opportunity when it came to the penalty shootout. Harry Kewell and Lucas Neill, two of Australia's highest profile players and most senior memebers were unable to convert their shots, putting Australia in all sorts of trouble. Japan on the other hand, held their nerves and slotted their first two penalties. Australia were playing catch up from there and couldn't manage a miracle. Hopefully Australia lift their game and we see them qualify in the Asian region now for the next World Cup.