A new era for the Socceroos began overnight with Graham Arnold’s men running out comfortable winners over a lacklustre Kuwait side.

The opening match of Arnold's tenure was fairly pleasing, with the first half seeing the Socceroos playing a high tempo, pressure-based style that relied on fast build up through the likes of Tom Rogic and Robbie Kruse.

As the heat started to affect the team, Arnold rung in the changes, seeing the debuts of Awer Mabil and Thomas Deng, with Mabil looking particularly sharp on his arrival.

Mark Milligan was handed the captain’s armband as part of an initiative by Arnold to spread the role around a ‘leadership team’ within the squad

Massimo Luongo’s performance was impressive, especially following his World Cup disappointment where he was benched.

Kuwait, ranked 159th in the world, made up for a lack of quality with sheer resilience and physical competitiveness, attempting to work their way back in to the game in the second half.

The Socceroos still seemed to struggle with a cutting edge and decisiveness in and around the box, an area of weakness Arnold has worked to nullify.

   GALLERY: Kuwait v Socceroos match action   

Socceroos

Danny Vukovic — 7

Was heard frequently instructing his team in defence, ensuring his men remained compact. Made a fantastic save in the early part of the second half from Kuwait’s first shot of the night and was comfortable without being worked.

Josh Risdon — 6

Laid on some good chances for Leckie and Kruse, linking up well in attack with the players around him.

Trent Sainsbury  — 6

As is typical of his game, Sainsbury was critical in foiling Kuwait’s best chances by mopping up at the back. Contrary to his better moments, there was some suspect defending and lackadaisical ball movement. Lucky to have stayed on the park in the second half.

Mark Milligan — 7

Lead by example, playing with a rough and tumble gusto, to the ire of the Kuwaiti players at times.

Aziz Behich — 6

Wily and determined throughout the first half, finding himself with plenty of license for innovation down his flank. Some wasteful passing and touches let his side down at times in the second half.