“It was exactly what we expected against Syria, a very physical game,” said Arnold. “We knew that, with the stadium here and a lot of fans supporting Syria, that would make it difficult for us, but I'm very, very happy with our defensive performance.

 

“That's two clean sheets that we've started off with now in the Asian Cup. Overall, I know we can improve and we will improve as we go. And it's great to qualify for the second round.”

The Australians prevailed after almost going behind to an early effort from Pablo Sabbag, whose shot beat goalkeeper Mathew Ryan before coming back off the post.

 

That was to prove a rare scare for the Socceroos against a Syrian side that sat deep for long periods in an effort to frustrate and stifle Australia’s attacking efforts.

 

Arnold’s team struggled in open play and did not have an attempt on target until the ball fell at Irvine’s feet following Martin Boyle’s run down the right side of the Syrian penalty area, with the St Pauli midfielder eventually poking the ball home.

The former Sydney FC coach took satisfaction from a second game without conceding a goal – “clean sheets win tournaments,” he said – and he declared his intentions to not ease off against Uzbekistan on Tuesday despite having already advanced.

 

“Our expectations and demands are we want to top this group,” said Arnold. “Yes we’ve qualified already, but we want to top the group and that’s been a goal of ours since we got into the camp for the Asian Cup, to do that.

 

“There’s no such thing as taking your foot off the pedal.”

The result leaves Syria needing to win their final group game against India to improve their hopes of going through to the last 16 for the first time, and coach Hector Cuper remained upbeat despite having drawn 0-0 against Uzbekistan on Matchday One.

 

“I’m not happy with the result, however I’m very satisfied with the players,” said the Argentinian. “The performance, the way they fight, the perseverance they showed against a team who are number 24 in the FIFA ranking and who have been with the same manager for four or five years.

“We were able to stop the threat from their tall players, we were able to neutralise that but we lacked the last touch with the opportunities that we had. But I’m very proud of my players, they had very good spirit.

 

“Of course, conceding one goal in two matches in a very tough group is a good thing. All we are focused on is the next game against India and we’d like to win the next game so we qualify.

 

“What gives me confidence is the players, their dedication and sacrifice. We are all energised.”