World Cup News: Australia, Croatia face off in crucial World Cup match
Croatia and Australia face off in an emotionally charged match Thursday that is likely to decide which team will advance to the second round of the World Cup.
Croatia, a semifinalist in 1998, wants to erase a disappointing performance four years ago, when it was eliminated in the first round. Australia had to wait 32 years between its two World Cup campaigns. The Socceroos are determined to
prolong their stay this time under the guidance of Dutchman Guus Hiddink.
Barring an a highly unlikely lopsided win for Japan over Brazil, Australia only needs a draw to make the next stage. Croatia needs a win to advance. Loyalties as well as limbs are expected to collide in the match.
Australia has seven players of Croatian heritage in the squad. Croatia, which has one of the most vaunted defences in the game, has three players who grew up in Australia.
For Australia, it is a chance to lift the profile of a sport that has long been dominated by rugby, Australian rules football and cricket. Prime Minister John Howard praised the Socceroos, saying the country was proud and fully behind its team.
One of the millions who stayed up to watch the team's games broadcast live from Germany, Howard also urged employers to be lenient on workers who turn up late or bleary-eyed to their jobs.
Croatia, a semifinalist in 1998, wants to erase a disappointing performance four years ago, when it was eliminated in the first round. Australia had to wait 32 years between its two World Cup campaigns. The Socceroos are determined to
prolong their stay this time under the guidance of Dutchman Guus Hiddink.Barring an a highly unlikely lopsided win for Japan over Brazil, Australia only needs a draw to make the next stage. Croatia needs a win to advance. Loyalties as well as limbs are expected to collide in the match.
Australia has seven players of Croatian heritage in the squad. Croatia, which has one of the most vaunted defences in the game, has three players who grew up in Australia.
For Australia, it is a chance to lift the profile of a sport that has long been dominated by rugby, Australian rules football and cricket. Prime Minister John Howard praised the Socceroos, saying the country was proud and fully behind its team.
One of the millions who stayed up to watch the team's games broadcast live from Germany, Howard also urged employers to be lenient on workers who turn up late or bleary-eyed to their jobs.
posted by 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany at 6:48 PM
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