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Australia vs. Bahrain: Tense Match with a Bitter Ending for the Socceroos
Australia defeated Bahrain 1-0 in a FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying match that was marked by tension, cards, and an own goal.
The Socceroos dominated the encounter from the start, with 71% possession and creating more goal-scoring opportunities. However, Bahrain’s defense remained strong and the Australians had to fight to find a way into the box.
The first half ended goalless, but the second half was full of emotions. In the 58th minute, Australian defender Kye Rowles received a yellow card, while minutes later, the home team made their first substitution. In the 63rd minute, it was Bahrain’s turn to receive a yellow card, this time from Abdullah Al-Khalasi. Both teams made changes throughout the match, with Australia making 3 substitutions and Bahrain making 4.
The sending off of Australian striker K. Yengi in the 77th minute complicated things for the Socceroos, but a defensive error by Bahrain gave them the victory. In the 89th minute, Australian defender Harry Souttar scored an own goal, scoring for Bahrain. The goal was the only one of the match, and gave Australia a vital win on their journey to the World Cup.
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Substitutions australia: at minute 58 N. Irankunda came in and M. Boyle went out., at minute 72 M. Duke came in and C. Goodwin went out., at minute 82 A. Mabil came in and C. Metcalfe went out.
Substitutions bahrain: at minute 67 H. Mubarak came in and M. D. Hasan M. A. went out., at minute 67 I. Al Khatal came in and A. Madan went out., at minute 84 M. Al-Humaidan came in and M. Marhoon went out., at minute 88 W. Al Hayam came in and S. M. Baqer went out.
The teams lined up as follows:
Australia
Bahrain
Titulares:
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