"These young boys are learning on the go. I am seeing them grow as young men, as players. I am seeing them mature and embrace the greatest challenge of all," coach Tony Popovic purred at his press conference ahead of his team’s Group D curtain-closer .
Needing at least a share of the spoils at to seal a spot in the, Popovic’s charges rose to the occasion and more than lived up to their coach’s words.
Although they proved unable to find the breakthrough against a stubborn and spirited Paraguayan side, the impressive Socceroos bossed proceedings for long stretches. Indeed, the overriding sense at full-time was that, in passing this latest test with a minimum of fuss, Popovic’s men had enhanced their credentials.
Australia looked especially commanding at the back, giving precious little away, and put their South American opponents under pressure on several occasions. Ultimately, the goalless draw was a question of job done as the Australians advanced to the knockout stage for the second straight edition – the first time that they have ever accomplished this feat at the FIFA World Cup™.
"To go back to back, to finish second in the group, is a massive achievement. The group deserves it. They put a lot of work in to get to this moment, and it’s another step forward," midfield linchpin Jackson Irvine told FIFA after the final whistle. “It’s something we can take great pride in.”
Having already etched their name into the history books, the trailblazing Socceroos have their sights set on pushing the envelope again. "This was just the first step," Irvine insisted. “Now we want to become the first Australia team to win a knockout match at a World Cup.”
Midfielder Ajdin Hrustic insisted he and his team-mates would soak up the achievement, before quickly turning their focus to the Round of 32.
"We really did work hard for this moment and I think we should enjoy it," Hrustic said. "We’ve achieved something special once again for ourselves, our country and everyone back at home. Then we’ll switch back on and get right back to work."
Another major positive to emerge from the Paraguay match from Popovic’s point of view was provided by 18-year-old centre-back Lucas Herrington, who clinched a milestone of his own by becoming the youngest player to start for Australia at a men’s FIFA World Cup.
The teenager, who plies his trade in the United States for Major League Soccer’s Colorado Rapids, appeared in his element on the biggest of stages, barely putting a foot wrong either defensively or in possession.
"I can’t really describe it. It means everything to me to represent the Socceroos at a World Cup," the record-breaker told FIFA after his dazzling debut. 2I’ve been dreaming of it since I was a kid, and to be able to do that today is so, so special and I can’t wait for the knockouts."
Irvine, Hrustic, Herrington and Co are still to find out whom they will face in the round of 32. Whoever lies in wait, however, Popovic’s rock-solid, supremely well-drilled outfit will fancy their prospects of giving them a run for their money.
Sources: FIFA Official
