Australia’s Dramatic Comeback: Securing a Draw Against Bahrain in Thrilling Clash

Australia faced Bahrain on Wednesday morning (AEDT) at Bahrain National Stadium, ending the match in a 2-2 draw. Kusini Yengi opened the scoring just 38 seconds into the game. Australia controlled most of the match, limiting Bahrain’s opportunities. However, Mahdi Abduljabba scored twice in two minutes in the second half, giving Bahrain an unexpected lead. Yengi scored again in stoppage time, securing a point for Australia.

Team News
Coach Tony Popovic made six changes from the previous match against Saudi Arabia. Maty Ryan returned as captain, and Hayden Matthews made his debut. Other new faces included Aziz Behich and Anthony Caceres. Australia maintained a 3-4-2-1 formation. Bahrain switched to a back four, with Hamad Al-Shamsan replacing the suspended Waleed Al Hayam.

First Half
Australia started strong, with Yengi scoring early after a pass from Matthews. Bahrain quickly responded, putting pressure on Australia. The Socceroos created several chances, but the first half ended with Australia leading 1-0.

Second Half
Bahrain pushed for an equalizer in the second half. Yengi nearly scored again, hitting the post, but soon after, Abduljabba found the net for Bahrain, equalizing in the 75th minute. Just two minutes later, Abduljabba scored again, giving Bahrain a 2-1 lead. Australia regrouped and equalized in stoppage time when Yengi scored his second goal. A VAR check followed, but Australia could not find a winner, settling for a draw.

Match Details

• Bahrain: 2 (Mahdi Abduljabba 75’, 77’)
• Australia: 2 (Kusini Yengi 1’, 90+6’)
• Date: Wednesday, 20 November 2024
• Venue: Bahrain National Stadium, Riffa

Australia Lineup:

• Maty Ryan (GK), Lewis Miller, Hayden Matthews, Harry Souttar, Cameron Burgess, Aziz Behich, Anthony Caceres, Jackson Irvine, Craig Goodwin, Riley McGree, Kusini Yengi.

Next Match:

• Australia v Indonesia
• Date: Thursday, 20 March 2025
• Venue: TBC