Socceroos ready for any Saudi approach in crunch clash

Knowing Saudi Arabia could sit deep and attempt to frustrate their way to a result against the Socceroos is one thing.

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But knowing Australia could also have to handle Herve Renard's love of a frenetic, energetic style means there's no shortage of tactical headaches ahead of Thursday night's blockbuster World Cup qualifier.

Away teams have historically had success gritting their teeth, setting themselves defensively and forcing the Socceroos to attempt to break them down.

But what approach Renard takes at Melbourne's AAMI Park is a mystery.

Coach Tony Popovic and midfielder Jackson Irvine are ready for both possibilities.

"We know that (low block) will come in phases of the game. We also know that the game can open up and be wild sometimes in these games as well," Irvine said.

"So it's about the way we manage that within the game itself. 

"But I think within the structure that we're building here we've got the capability of playing against deeper blocks again and more open games."

With Craig Goodwin suspended, the Socceroos can't count on the slick left-footer's set pieces to break the contest open.

But Popovic is adamant his charges are ready for anything.

"We know what's coming, and we have to match that enthusiasm, that energy, but have the patience and calmness to play our football at the right moments and identify what the game is presenting," he said.

"If they play a higher line as they did in the World Cup, to identify those moments, if they sit deeper, to identify the patience we need.

"And obviously be aware of talented individuals that like to do things on their own because they can and just be aware of that."

The game, and the following away match against Bahrain, couldn't be more pivotal to Australia's hopes of direct qualification for 2026.

Japan (10 points) are outright Group C leaders with Australia (five points, +1) ahead of Saudi Arabia (five points, -1) and Bahrain (five points, -4) on goal difference.

The top two teams in group C secure direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup while third and fourth place go into the next round of qualifying.

A packed out AAMI Park, among the more intimate and sound-capturing venues at Australia's disposal, will pit the Saudis against a raucous and parochial local crowd.

Former Melbourne Victory coach Popovic and proud Victorian Irvine are well aware of that.

"Every game at home is an opportunity to put on a show in front of friends, family and obviously home fans," Irvine said.

"The atmosphere generated always gives a snapshot push. So we're hoping it'll be an electric one tomorrow night."

Australian Associated Press

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