McGree helps Socceroos put drama behind them and leave Qatar reeling

Qatar 0-3 Australia (McGree 5, Yengi 32, Irankunda 40) Julen Lopetegui under pressure as Qatar head coach It was a win almost as comfortable as the buildup had been turbulent, as the Socceroos placed the drama of a week dominated by talk of everything but the football to one side

Qatar 0-3 Australia (McGree 5, Yengi 32, Irankunda 40) Julen Lopetegui under pressure as Qatar head coach It was a win almost as comfortable as the buildup had been turbulent, as the Socceroos placed the drama of a week dominated by talk of everything but the football to one side and cruised to a comprehensive 3-0 win over Qatar. Pressing high, Australia’s men were ruthless in attack and dominant whenever their opponents even thought about getting forward, putting the result beyond doubt inside the opening 45 minutes . It took until the 38th for Qatar to register a touch in the Australia penalty area, and by that point they were down 2-0, with the third added for good measure just two minutes later.

When Almoez Ali registered the reigning Asian champions’ first shot in the 72nd minute, Tony Popovic had emptied his bench, and the debutant Sam Klein hurled himself in front of the attempt before Patrick Beach had to worry about making a save. Continue reading...