Bahrain vs Australia Prediction, Preview, Lineups, and Team News | AFC World Cup Qualifiers.
The AFC World Cup Qualifiers continue to heat up as Bahrain hosts Australia in what promises to be a thrilling encounter in Group C. With both teams eager to secure crucial points, this game is set to showcase intense competition and tactical battles. Let’s dive into the key details, team updates, and predictions for this high-stakes matchup.
Match Details
- Competition: AFC World Cup Qualifiers
- Fixtures: Bahrain National Football Team vs Australia National Football Team
- Date: Tuesday, November 19, 2024
- Time: 7:15 PM GMT
- Venue: Bahrain National Stadium, Manama, Bahrain
Match Overview
This clash marks the sixth group-stage match for both Bahrain and Australia in Group C. Currently, Bahrain is struggling in fifth place, while Australia occupies second position and is pushing for a strong finish to secure qualification.
Bahrain’s recent form has been lackluster. After defeating Australia in September, they have failed to win any of their last four matches, managing only two draws and suffering two defeats. Their most recent outing ended in a 1-0 loss to China, leaving them desperate for a turnaround.
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Australia, meanwhile, has had an inconsistent run as well. Despite securing draws against tough opponents like Japan and Saudi Arabia, they’ve managed just one win in their last five matches. Having lost to Bahrain in their previous encounter, the Socceroos will aim to exact revenge and strengthen their qualification bid.
Bahrain National Team Updates
Bahrain National Football Team’s head coach, Dragan Talajic, faces an uphill task following his team’s recent struggles. The suspension of Waleed Al-Hayam due to a red card in their last match against China adds to their woes. Despite this setback, the team is otherwise in full health and ready to take on Australia.
Australia National Team Updates
Australia National Football Team’s manager, Tony Popovic, has seen flashes of brilliance from his team but will need consistency to prevail in this encounter. An injury concern surrounds substitute Nishan Velupillay, who picked up a knock during the draw against Saudi Arabia. However, the rest of the squad is fit and available, giving Popovic plenty of options.
Predicted Lineups
Bahrain National Football Team (3-4-3):
- Goalkeeper: Ebrahim Lutfalla
- Defenders: Amine Benaddi, Hamad Al-Shamsan, Sayed Dhiya Saeed (C)
- Midfielders: Vincent Emmanuel, Abbas Al-Asfoor, Ali Haram, Mohammed Jasim Marhoon
- Forwards: Ali Madan, Mahdi Abduljabbar, Kamil Al-Aswad
Australia National Football Team (3-4-2-1):
- Goalkeeper: Joe Gauci
- Defenders: Jason Geria, Harry Souttar, Cameron Burgess
- Midfielders: Lewis Miller, Aiden O’Neill, Jackson Irvine (C), Jordan Bos
- Forwards: Ajdin Hrustic, Mitchell Duke, Riley McGree
Head-to-Head Record
The two teams have faced each other five times, with Australia dominating the fixtures. However, Bahrain secured a historic 1-0 victory in their last meeting.
| Date | Match | Competition |
|---|---|---|
| 05/09/24 | Australia 0-1 Bahrain | AFC World Cup Qualifiers |
| 06/01/24 | Bahrain 0-2 Australia | International Friendly |
| 18/01/11 | Australia 1-0 Bahrain | AFC Asian Cup |
| 10/06/09 | Australia 2-0 Bahrain | AFC World Cup Qualifiers |
| 19/11/08 | Bahrain 0-1 Australia | AFC World Cup Qualifiers |
Key Players to Watch
Ebrahim Lutfalla (Bahrain)
The Bahraini goalkeeper has been a standout performer despite the team’s recent struggles. In their last match against China, Lutfalla made crucial saves and showed composure under pressure. His presence will be vital if Bahrain hopes to secure a positive result.
Harry Souttar (Australia)
Australia’s defensive stalwart has been instrumental in their recent performances. His solid defending and ability to contribute to the team’s build-up play make him a key player to watch. Souttar’s aerial dominance and calmness under pressure will be essential for the Socceroos.
Match Prediction
Considering both teams’ recent form, Australia appears to have the upper hand due to their superior squad depth and tactical organization. Bahrain’s home advantage and confidence from their last victory over Australia will make it a tight contest, but the Socceroos are likely to edge this one.
Soccer Baba Prediction: Bahrain 1-2 Australia
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Where to Watch Bahrain vs Australia Live
| Country | Broadcast/Streaming Platform |
|---|---|
| UK | OneFootball |
| USA | beIN Sports |
| India | Fancode |
| Bahrain | beIN Sports |
| Australia | Paramount+ |
This match promises high stakes and excitement as both teams aim to reignite their campaigns. Will Bahrain repeat their September triumph, or will Australia bounce back stronger? Stay tuned!
