Belief the key as Socceroos aim for perfect start
Graham Arnold (centre) is looking to secure direct World Cup qualification for the Socceroos. Photo: Richard Wainwright/AAP PHOTOS
Socceroos coach Graham Arnold is backing his attacking weapons to produce game-changing displays as he aims to pocket a perfect six points against Bahrain and Indonesia.
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The Socceroos' third phase of World Cup qualifiers begins on Thursday night when they take on Bahrain on the Gold Coast, with a match against Indonesia in Jakarta to follow next Tuesday.
Arnold says he will heavily rotate his squad to ensure his players are fresh for the two matches.
A top-two finish in a group also featuring Japan, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, China and Indonesia will guarantee the Socceroos a berth at the 2026 World Cup in North America.
A third- or fourth-place finish will thrust them into another phase of qualifiers.
Anything less than wins against Bahrain and Indonesia in the opening two games will be a disappointment for Arnold.
"The goal is six points," Arnold said.
"So yeah, probably it would be (a disappointment if we didn't get it).
"But at the same time, we've got 10 games to play.
"The internal goal is direct qualification. But you know, three out of five World Cups this century that we've qualified for has been (through) play-offs.
"So for me, the most important thing is to qualify for the World Cup."
Arnold has made a point to pick more wingers in his squad in a bid to add extra firepower, and he wants his players to back themselves in.
Craig Goodwin is ready to fire for Australia after finding top form with his Saudi club. (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)
"It's a belief in themselves. We've got, I believe, some real good attacking quality," he said.
"That's why I went with extra wingers this camp. I think that'll be crucial in the one-versus-one actions. Just go for it.
"Having players that can make an impact and change the game in just one action is crucial, and that's why we went for those extra players."
One of those players is Craig Goodwin, who has been in hot form for his Saudi side Al-Wehda.
"He's like a great bottle of wine, isn't he, he's getting better and better as he gets older," Arnold said of the 32-year-old.
"And also his set-piece delivery is crucial in these types of games as well.
"He started well in Saudi, he's come across a little bit earlier than the others. He looks extremely fresh and ready."
Australian Associated Press
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