Overview
- Jesús Ramírez decided the Houston friendly in the 38th minute, finishing Ender Echenique’s low cutback after Venezuela controlled territory and possession.
- Australia managed just 34% of the ball as La Vinotinto’s high press disrupted their build-up and kept the Socceroos pinned back for long stretches.
- Tony Popovic handed senior debuts to Patrick Beach, Kai Trewin and Paul Okon-Engstler, with Al Hassan Touré later off the bench, and Beach impressed with several strong saves.
- Craig Goodwin’s trial at left wing-back was exposed for the goal and was ended at half-time when Callum Elder came on.
- Jason Geria exited with a left hamstring injury before the break, Riley McGree and Jackson Irvine returned from layoffs, and Popovic said there is “a lot we have to assess” with Colombia up next in New York and limited matches left before the World Cup squad is named.