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Australia made a return to winning ways on Thursday with a comprehensive 4-0 win against Vietnam in Melbourne.
However, with the Socceroos still outside the two direct qualification positions and only three games to go, the pressure is building for Graham Arnold’s squad.
On Wednesday morning (AEDT) Australia will take on an Oman side which has proven to be an awkward opponent during this round of qualifiers.
Japan suffered a shock defeat to the Omani’s in the opening match of the third round of AFC World Cup qualifying, going down 1-0 after conceding in the 88th minute.
They have also notched a 3-1 win against Vietnam as well as a draw with China.
The Socceroos were pushed all the way by Oman when these two met in October last year.
While Australia opened the scoring inside 10 minutes, Oman equalised on the half-hour mark before Martin Boyle put the hosts back ahead after half-time and Mitch Duke scored a third in the 89th minute.
The final 3-1 scoreline flattered the Socceroos with Oman proving they can hold their own against top sides.
Though Oman's chances of World Cup qualification are all but over, expect them to make Australia work very hard to secure a vital three points.
The Socceroos have won their past three matches against Oman but were held to two draws and a loss prior to that run.
Expect to see a spirited performance from Oman at home, with Muscat’s Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex set to be a difficult hunting ground for Australia.
As was evident in Oman’s win against Japan, the Branko Ivankovic coached side will push for the full 90 minutes so a late lapse could prove costly for Australia.
The Socceroos will need to be clinical if they are going to win with chances likely to be at a premium.
Ivankovic has prepared a well-drilled Oman side with the players capable of springing an upset.
Australia will need to be at their best if they are to claim the win they desperately require.
