“The darlings of the World Cup”. That’s just one way you might describe what Australia and Harry Souttar have done this tournament. That term rings even more true on Wednesday after Australia again came up with a big 1-0 win over Denmark.
Going into their final match of the group stage against Denmark, Australia needed to either win or draw and have Tunisia lose to France. Unlucky for Australia though, France (who played Tunisia on Wednesday), decided to rest most of their starting XI with their group win already locked up.
The result of changing their lineup was France going down by a goal late and losing to Tunisia 1-0. Lucky enough for Australia though, they didn’t leave fate to chance on Wednesday — Australia took the game to Denmark and ensured advancement with a victory.
Australia’s only goal came in the second half, when Mathew Leckie used his dribbling ability to take on Denmark defenders and find the back of the net. That goal would be more than enough, as Australia again held their opponent to a clean sheet the rest of the way.
Australia’s second win of the tournament now pushes them through the group stages and into the knockout stage of the World Cup. Next up for Australia, things won’t get easier as the team takes on Argentina on Saturday.
Harry Souttar Keeps Turning Heads at World Cup
Another victory for Australia and another fantastic game for Harry Souttar. That’s the way the World Cup has gone so far for “The Socceroos”. Souttar again on Wednesday excelled as he made 9 clearances, 2 interceptions, blocked 1 shot, and won 6 of 8 aerial duels, per Sofascore.
After having an iffy game against France, Harry Souttar has done nothing but keep Australia’s backline steadfast against opponents. The only way to describe Souttar’s physically imposing/positionally sound play this World Cup, is tantalizing.
Stoke City’s front office and manager Alex Neil are most likely very excited to get an in-form Harry Souttar back when play resumes in December. They’ll be hoping his current level of play helps elevate the club on the table.
As for Souttar himself, he will be hoping to keep up his level of play as well when Australia take on Lionel Messi and Argentina on Saturday — A matchup that promises to test Australia’s defensive ability.