Australia secured a 1-0 victory over Syria in Group B at Jassim bin Hamad Stadium in Doha on Thursday, with Jackson Irvine netting the solitary goal. This win guarantees Australia’s place in the knockout rounds of the 2023 AFC Asian Cup.
St. Pauli man Irvine’s 59th-minute goal, his second in the tournament, added three points to Australia’s tally, putting them at the top of the standings of Group B. The ticket to the round of 16 was confirmed after Uzbekistan defeated India 3-0 in the group’s second match on Thursday.
Despite an early scare from Syria, where Pablo Sabbag’s shot hit the post of Mathew Ryan’s goal, Australia capitalized on their opportunities and eventually saw off their stubborn opponents to assume complete control of Group B, following their earlier win over India in their first match.
Jordan Bos, in the starting lineup after a substitute appearance in the previous match, missed a shot wide from the edge of the area as Australia struggled to make the most of possession gifted by Syria. Irvine had a header over the bar after a free-kick from Connor Metcalfe, and he narrowly missed connecting with a corner from Martin Boyle.
Australia’s persistence paid off in the 59th minute when Boyle, slipping past Amar Ramadan, found Irvine in the box. After a turn, Irvine poked the ball under Ahmad Madanieh to score the crucial goal.
Syrian attacks were limited in the first half, with Australia opening up opportunities. Hector Cuper’s side had rare chances, including Amar Ramadan’s shot into the side netting and Sabbag shooting over from 20 yards before the interval.
In the final quarter of an hour, Australian goalkeeper Ryan survived a scare when Mouaiad Al Ajaan’s long-range strike almost went over the line. The AZ Alkmaar goalkeeper managed to keep the ball out, securing Australia’s three points.
Australia now aims to further secure the top spot in Group B by avoiding defeat against Uzbekistan on Tuesday, while Syria needs a victory against India to have a chance of advancing in the tournament.