Flying fullback Brad Smith sees the Caltex Socceroos’ status as Group B’s only unbeaten team as a big confidence boost for the must-win match against the UAE.
Ange Postecoglou’s side have the chance to put four points between them and Tuesday night’s opposition but a top two spot remains the objective.
Three points at Allianz Stadium will keep the pressure on group leaders Japan and Saudi Arabia with two more matches in Australia still to come.
“We’re on our home soil, we’ve got our fans to help us through it and we’ve got plenty of confidence,” Smith told reporters on Sunday.
“The team has been working really hard and I feel like we’re doing well.
“Everyone knows it’s a big game but the Socceroos have never really had it easy, have they?
“We’re leaving it late but I think we’ll get the job done.”
Caltex Socceroos: Group B results and ladder
MCGREE’S LEARNING CURVE
Fresh-faced teenager Riley McGree has found himself in the thick of preparations for one of the national team’s most important matches in recent years.
The 18-year-old says the support of Tim Cahill and fellow Caltex Socceroos veterans has been invaluable.
“[Tim] has been around so long, he’s very knowledgeable and he knows what the coach wants and how the other players feel about new boys coming in,” McGree said.
“I’m just taking everything in my stride and learning as much as I can from the coaching staff and the players and just trying to develop myself as a player more.”
The Caltex Socceroos tackle UAE in a crucial World Cup Qualifier in Sydney on March 28. Click here for tickets