The Socceroos title defence kicked off in the Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Al Ain against Jordan in UAE.
The Asian Champions started well, shifting the ball around, with a couple of chances through an Awer Mabil shot and a Jamie Maclaren wide header.
But Jordan punished the Socceroos for awful making in the eight-yard area, Anas Bani Yaseen's powerful header putting them in front at half-time.
Graham Arnold's men were guilty of being caught in possession to easily and lacking pace and purpose.
The second-half was much better and was all about the Socceroos, but they just couldn’t break down Jordan’s stoic defending. Jamie McLaren summing up Australia's frustration, with a last-gasp goal disallowed for offside.
SOCCEROOS
Mathew Ryan – 7
Good save early on from a fierce strike. Couldn’t do anything about Anas Bani Yaseen's powerful header on the 25th minute. Fantastic save from Ryan from Jordan’s free kick just outside the box, created by Trent Sainsbury's lazy tackle.
Another straight forward save, getting his body behind the ball in the second half.
Aziz Behich – 7
Defended well, enjoyed going forward trying to create width, couple of decent crosses into the area. Overall, he worked hard for his team
Trent Sainsbury – 6
Sloppy in his distribution of the ball, twice putting the ball into no man’s land. Looked rattled with Jordan’s fast attacking style.
A very poor tackle just outside the box early, forced Mat Ryan into a brilliant save. But eventually rescued his blushes with a much better second half.
Milos Degenek – 7
Going about his defensive duties, held his ground well. Looked solid in the second period. The only shining light for the Socceroos
Joshua Risdon – 6.5
Started with good intent, closing down well, pressing forward, decent deliveries out wide into the goal area. Appear tired towards the end of the first-half. Subbed at half-time.
Related Articles

Socceroos midfielder embraces move to England

Cardiff City snap up sought-after Socceroos starlet
