CALEB Watts was again introduced from the bench but Olyroos' Olympics matchday one result couldn’t be repeated as they sank late 1-0 to an experienced Spain side.
Despite defeat, the young Australian team will still progress from their Tokyo 2020 group with victory in their final match in Group C, against Egypt.
The Spaniards had names that featured in their European Championship semi-finalist squad this summer, such as La Liga stars goalkeeper Unai Simon, Mikel Oyarzabal, and Red Bull Leipzig’s Dani Olmo, while Real Madrid’s Marco Asensio too played.
Saints youngster Watts came on again with just under 20 minutes to go but watched on as Oyarzabel headed home from a corner in the final ten to seal a crucial victory for Spain – after they drew 0-0 with Egypt in the opener.
The Olyroos were criticised for playing in a negative manner and inviting pressure onto their defenders and ‘keeper, pressure which eventually told.
None of that will matter if they defeat Egypt at Miyagi Stadium on Wednesday, though. Suspensions through yellow card accumulation will see a handful of changes and Watts may well get a first start.
FULL TIME | A valiant effort ends in defeat by the narrowest of margins.
— Olyroos (@Socceroos) July 25, 2021
Attention now turns to our final #Tokyo2020 group stage meeting with Egypt on Wednesday. #AUSvESP #GoAustralia pic.twitter.com/0FqOLoAJJT
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