Perth Glory striker Nikita Rukavytsya gave Australia a first half lead, with Troy Hearfield and James Troisi adding second half goals.

Graham Arnold handed an Olyroo debut to Queensland Roar winger Michael Zullo, while Spase Dilevski played his first game since February 2007.

Rukavytsya headed home Australia’s first goal after 19 minutes, as Australia gained the ascendancy.

Hearfield scored a terrific goal seven minutes after the break to double the advantage and substitute James Troisi, made a quick impact after coming on as a substitute to score the third goal.

Arnold was satisfied with the outcome, although concerned over injuries sustained by goalscorers Rukavytsya and Hearfield.

“Having played 15 or 16 Olympic qualifiers in Asia, we know exactly how to slow down the game.

“Croatia are a good side but their players are young by one or two years. In this age group, one or two years can make a lot of difference physically.

“I hope it’s not serious,” said Arnold in relation to the injuries.

He added: "I was very pleased with the work rate of the players in hot conditions and their mental attitude was very good.

"Croatia are a physical side and we matched them.

"To win in this fashion was a good start to the tournament," concluded Arnold.

Australia next play Chile, who thrashed Togo 5-1.

In other news from the tournament, Togo’s coach revealed that Arsenal star Emmanuel Adebayor will be coming and will face Australia in the third and final group game.

Match details
Qantas Under 23s 3 (Nikita Rukavytsya 18', Troy Hearfield 52', James Troisi 74') Croatia 0

Friday 16 May 2008
KLFA Stadium, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Referee: Shah Buddin Hadimim

Qantas Under 23s: 18.Tando Velaphi (gk), 2.Ruben Zadkovich, 16.Nigel Boogaard, 22.Aaron Downes, 6.Nikolai Topor-Stanley, 17.Spase Dilevski, 11.James Holland (7.Adam D’Apuzzo 75'), 8.Mark Bridge (c), 15.Michael Zullo, 20.Nikita Rukavytsya (9.Matt Simon 32'), 14.Troy Hearfield (10.James Troisi 72').

Substitutes Not Used: 12.Dean Bouzanis (gk), 19.Jason Hoffman, 3.Adrian Leijer, 13.Trent McClenahan.

Yellow Cards: Ruben Zadkovich 90'
Red Cards: Nil