The Asian Cup begins this Friday, a tournament that presents the Socceroos with their best chance at winning their first major trophy. Here are three reasons why Australia can become champions...
1. Tactical Versatility
Australian coach Ange Postecoglou is obsessed with finding the right formula, tactics and system to get the Socceroos playing not only attractive but also efficient football. Some of the features that have been prominent since Ange took over include playing out from the back, playing with the ball on the ground, using pace on the wings, being imposing on the opposition and using Tim Cahill as a focal point up front. However, Ange has emphasized versatility and adaptability most of all. He chose players who are specifically competent in tactical awareness and reading the game and technically mobile and versatile. This will allow Ange to be extremely adaptable to the conditions, opposition and tactics encountered in every situation. I think Ange's hard work on Australia's style of play, tactics and philosophy will finally bear fruit at the Asian Cup.
2. Quality Players, Quality Results
Most often than people realise, football becomes a simple game where the team with the better players wins the match. Although it might be a huge mistake to look at it like this and potentially underestimate the opposition, the Australian players need to gain confidence from their pedigree and experience and really take the initiative against inferior opposition. In my opinion only Japan can match Australia on paper and the Socceroos must take full advantage of that. Not every team has the best goalkeeper in Belgium like Matt Ryan, a captain of an English Premier League team like Mile Jedinak or a goal scorer as good as Tim Cahill. Once Australia takes to the field I expect the quality to shine through, which should see the Socceroos make easy work of the group stage and grow in confidence as the tournament progresses.
3. Home Advantage
Playing at home just can't be overlooked, it's not a coincidence that many fan groups call themselves the "twelfth man". Anyone that doesn't believe in home ground advantage in football is simply naive. It has been twenty matches, nearly six years since the Socceroos have lost at home. In recent times the Socceroos have truly made Australia a fortress and playing against Australia at home is a different proposition. Australia is well known for rising up to the occasion in big cup tournaments such as the World Cup and I expect the players to rise even more playing in front of their own fans. To win a major tournament you need three things, quality, a bit of luck and passion. The big Australian crowds should provide the players with all the passion and pride needed to succeed.
