Kusini Yengi emerged as Australia’s saviour, scoring in both the first and 97th minutes to secure a 2-2 draw against Bahrain in their World Cup qualifier.
This result maintained manager Tony Popovic’s unbeaten streak with the Socceroos, now at four matches, though three have ended in draws.
The game began brilliantly for Australia, with Yengi capitalising on a defensive error by Sayid Mahdi Baqer to score within 40 seconds. Despite this early lead, Australia struggled to extend their advantage. Yengi hit the post at 61 minutes from a Riley McGree cross and missed another opportunity shortly after due to a poor touch.
Bahrain took advantage of Australia’s inability to secure the win. Mahdi Abduljabbar equalised with a long-range lob over Mat Ryan in the 75th minute. Just two minutes later, Abduljabbar scored again following a defensive mix-up between Ryan and Hayden Matthews.
In stoppage time, Yengi salvaged a point for Australia by reacting quickly to score from close range. This draw marked Australia’s fourth in six matches, placing them second in Group C with seven points. Teams ranked third to sixth, including Bahrain in fifth place, are all on six points.
Australia’s Performance Analysis
Australia dominated much of the match but failed to convert their control into goals. They limited Bahrain to just 0.01 xG in the first half but ultimately lost the xG battle 1.21-0.91. Aside from their goals, Popovic’s team managed only one shot on target before and after halftime.
The Socceroos have netted just six goals across six qualifying matches, significantly fewer than group leaders Japan who have scored 22 times. This lack of finishing power has been a recurring issue for Australia throughout their campaign.
