Socceroos put FIVE past Indonesia as Tony Popovic’s Australia side heed Tim Cahill’s advice and take a step closer to World Cup qualification

Tony Popovic’s Australia side took a crucial step closer towards qualifying for the 2026 World Cup as they swept away Indonesia 5-1 in their qualifying match on Thuesday. 

The Socceroos can breathe a little easier as they shored up their standing in second place in the group with Japan and Bahrain currently 0-0 in their qualifying clash as it stands. 

It wasn’t all plain sailing for the Aussies though, with the Socceroos being handed an early lifeline after Kevin Diks of Indonesia missed a penalty inside the opening eight minutes of the match. 

It was then that the home side stepped into second gear, with Martin Boyle converting a penalty 10 minutes later. 

Nishan Velupillay would strike not long after while Jackson Irvine would follow up for the Socceroos’ third of the night before half-time. 

Nishan Velupillay (pictured), Martin Boyle, Jackson Irvine and Lewis Miller all scored for the hosts  

Tony Popovic’s side sit second in the group as it stands, with Japan and Bahrain currently drawing 0-0 in their qualifying clash 

Australia appeared to heed the warning from Socceroos great Tim Cahill who warned the hosts to guard against complacency against teams in their group

Lewis Miller would nab side’s fourth after 61 minutes with Irvine netting in the 90th minute to seal the victory for the hosts.  

Despite their blip in the opening 10 minutes of the match, the Socceroos look to have heeded Tim Cahill’s advice, after the Aussie great told the side earlier in the week to not underestimate opponents like Indonesia in their bid to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.  

With Japan on top of Group C on 17 points as it stands, Australia currently sit ssecond second with 10 points – three clear of Bahrain in third. 

More to follow…