Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Australia have created history by claiming their first ever AFC Asian Cup title after defeating Korea Republic 2-1.
Substitute James Troisi was the hero on the night after he struck in the 105th minute to give the Socceroos an historic victory in Sydney.
Tournament Most Valuable Player Massimo Luongo gave Australia a 1-0 lead in the 44thminute, however Korea Republic momentarily broke the hearts of the local fans as star striker Son Heung-min equalised one minute into extra time.
Not to be outdone, the Socceroos, who were buoyed by a vocal Australian crowd, secured the victory and created Australian footballing history.
Here are the key stats to emerge from the match:
The win gave the Socceroos their first ever AFC Asian Cup title since being introduced into the Confederation in 2006. Korea Republic’s loss continues their 55-year drought without a title.
Despite the loss, Korea Republic had more shots during the match with 3 on target and 7 off target. Australia on the other hand had 4 shots on target with 5 off target.
Ill-discipline on the night did not count for much as the host-nation conceded 5 yellow cards to Korea Republic’s 0.
Possession was relatively even as Australia had 52.6% of possession, just edging out their opponents 47.4%.
Territorial advantage didn’t prove a major factor during the match either with both team’s share of territory relatively even as Korea Republic held onto a 53% advantage to Australia’s 47%.
Apart from bring crowned champions of Asia on the night, Australia were also awarded the Fair Play Award for competing in the best spirit of the game.
The Socceroos finished the tournament with the most goals having scored 14 in their six matches. They also conceded the equal least (2) - the same amount as Korea Republic.
Photo: WSG