BRAZIL 2014. PIPE DREAM OR REALITY?

With World Cup Qualifiers just around the corner (October 16), It’s time for all nations (whether they be competing in UEFA, CONCACAF, AFRICA, ASIA OR CONMEBOL) to step up and get the ball rolling in their respective qualifiers, if they want to be one of the lucky 32 participants at the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Australia will take on Iraq Wednesday Night (October 16) in what will prove to be a decisive match for both countries. Having both gained only 2 points from a possible 9, this encounter will surely prove to be an attacking game of Football. Having scored only 2 goals in their last 3 qualifiers, The Socceroos need to look to players like Archie Thompson and Bret Holman to bolster their attack. Holman, I believe, is an out and out Striker. This was evident at the 2010 World Cup, where he netted two goals for Australia in a less than eventful World Cup campaign. Holman has the ability to step up on the biggest stage and deliver, so why are his talents being hidden in and around the Midfield in positions such as Winger or Attacking Midfielder. It was hard to name who Australia fielded as there Strikers in their last qualifying match against Jordan, as the Socceroos attack seemed lacklustre at best. And believe me; this writer was up in the wee hours of the morning at 2:45am watching this miserable game unfold. It seemed there was no desire or will to score, and the only player who ever looked like scoring was Crystal Palace Midfielder Mile Jedinak. The only glimmer of hope for the Socceroos, was when Archie Thompson was introduced late in the game and managed to find the back of the net within 5 minutes of his arrival. Which brings me to my next point, Archie Thompson. A player of his experience, tremendous speed and quick thinking should be starting in matches like these where goals and points are desperately needed. Archie Thompson has the pace to penetrate any defence and has a powerful shot to go with it. So, as the Socceroos trod out on to the pitch in Doha on Tuesday Night (Qatar time), the whole of a nation’s hopes hinge on a Socceroos victory which will bring us one step closer to Brazil 2014. Names like Holman, Thompson and Cahill will play an important role in making sure Australia walk away from Doha with all 3 points.

Alex Stilianos.