Socceroos stay alive as Ajdin Hrustic fires late winner in World Cup playoff win over UAE

Putting defenders on their heels by running at them can do magical things, as the Australians discovered minutes into the second half when Mat Leckie forced a turnover of possession and the ball fell to Martin Boyle. Driving into the penalty area with venomous intent, the Scotland-born winger laced a cross along the ground that was met by Jackson Irvine. Irvine did what he does best as he arrived in the box from the midfield and fired home.

Had his side played particularly well? Not particularly, and the Peruvians that were watching on will have seen little on Wednesday that will strike fear into their hearts. But for all the familiar problems that were on show, the Socceroos did not deserve to lose. Now, they stand just one triumph away from Qatar 2022.