The LG Joeys have made a disappointing start to their 2001 FIFA World Championship campaign, with a 1-0 loss to reigning Champions Brazil, in Trinidad earlier today.
The only goal of the match was scored in the 76th minute, when Brazilšs Anderson Costa took advantage of a loose ball before hammering it past Australian goalkeeper Nathan Coe.
The Australians had a number of chances after the break, with a free kick by striker Fred Agius brilliantly saved by the Brazilian goalkeeper.
"Overall, it didnšt go too badly, and although it is disappointing not to have won, we did quite well for most of the game," said national youth coach Ange Postecoglou from Port of Spain earlier.
"Brazil had us under pressure, and in particular in the second half, we had some a spell of good chances to score, but unfortunately, we couldnšt take them.
"Nathan (Coe) was outstanding he had a great game and really kept us in the match and I have to give credit to him for his world class saves.
"At the end of the day, they are Brazil, the reigning Championship holders, and today was something like their 61st preparation match, compared to our 13th or 14th.
"The fact that we almost snuck in a result is a great confidence booster for boys, and showed that we were able to cope with what Išd consider the hardest of the three games." He concluded.