For a long time, Brazil felt a long way away. As Robbie Thomson dropped into commentary last night, the numbers told their own story. Australia hadn’t scored against Brazil in an official A international since Shaun Murphy’s winner in 2001. Twenty-five years.
Then Nestory Irankunda bent that free kick into the top corner, flying off in celebration with the kind of samba-boy energy he always brings. The Socceroos came within seconds of a famous win before Brazil equalised late.
Four days later, they conceded early again. Instead of folding, they responded. Circati equalised. Metcalfe made it 2-1 with a worldie. For a while, Australia led Brazil. The quality eventually told and Brazil ran out 4-2 winners, but these two games felt bigger than the results.
Twenty-five years without a goal against Brazil. Three in four days.
More importantly, Australia looked like a side willing to play, take risks and believe they belonged in the contest.
A draw and a defeat on paper. A genuine step forward on the pitch. Plenty to build on.
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