World Cup 2006 - Australia vs. Croatia

Another crucial match I missed. I did wake up at 5am, but thought another 5 minutes wouldn't matter. It did because I didn't wake up until it was time to leave for the office. From what I've heard and read later, it's Australia's most exciting game yet. Australia needs only to draw to get into the Round of 16.

Guus Hiddink surprised everyone by making Zeljko Kalac the goalkeeper of the match, instead of the ever-dependable Mark Scharwzer. It proved to be a costly mistake. Srna of Croatia made an easy shot. Kalac fumbled and the ball rolled over him and into the net.

It was such a bad move, I'm sure Kalac would like to kick himself in the head, if that's possible to do. Moore put Australia back into the game by scoring an penalty-shot equalizer at the 39th minute. A bit of a scuffle ensued, and Croatia's Suminic was given a yellow card, then another, but the referee somehow forgot to take him out of the game. Suminic didn't behave himself, and earned his 3rd yellow card. Three strikes and out.

At the 56th minute, Nino Kovad of Croatia scored another superb goal. Just when things are getting a bit desperate, Harry Kewell stepped up to the plate and kicked in a superb goal at the 79th minute, ensuring Australia's inclusion in the Round of 16 with a 2-all draw.