The Socceroos survive a scare at the death after failing to take their chances in a stalemate with the Green Falcons in Melbourne

The national anthems are complete, the players are in situ and we’re about to get underway…

Saudi Arabia present a familiar opponent, who had the better of the Socceroos in qualifying for the previous World Cup under French coach Hervé Renard. Much has changed since then, and Jack Snape was on the ground as Australia’s coach Tony Popovic backed his side to play with restored confidence.