Holger Osieck’s players are now fully focused on the friendly against Brazil.
Midfielder James Holland insists the Socceroos have put their World Cup qualification joy behind them as the team prepares to face Brazil on Sunday.
When the match at the Mane Garrincha stadium in Brasilia it will mark the first time the Australia squad have taken to the field together since the victory over June that earned Holger Osieck’s side passage to the tournament in south America next year.
Josh Kennedy was the hero that night, his 77th-minute header securing the all important win against Iraw and prompting euphoric at Stadium Australia at the final whistle, but Holland says it is all forgotten now.
“Coming off qualifying is good for our confidence but at the same time we don’t live in the past,” he told Fox Sports.
“We’re looking forward and even though it (the victory over Iraq) created a better atmosphere within the team, we’re all looking forward from here.”
Going up against a team of Brazil’s eminence is a challenge that the 24-year-old relishes and he admits ever ounce of his focus is being channeled into the preparing for the game.
“Brazil don’t need any introduction,” Holland added. “They are five-time world champions and if you look at their team on paper they have some of the best players in the world at the moment
“It’s a good chance to test ourselves and help us work towards the World Cup next year.”
COMMENTS