Australia vs Iraq

So the game was a close affair in the end, with Australia’s woefully inept defence matched only by Iraq’s lack of attacking prowess. A Harry Kewell goal in the 47 minute proved conclusive though, which means Australia progress to the next round of the world cup qualifying.

Watching any Australian team play is certainly a colourful and enjoyable experience, and there were a hardcore of boisterous Iraqi supporters among the fifty thousand in attendance to make it a good occasion. A couple of other observations. First, the etiquette of watching football seems to vary wherever I’ve caught games overseas – lots of whooping and screaming over here, not to mention random bouts of applause and unsporting cheering for opposition yellow cards. Second, the football itself is played quite differently despite obviously having the same rules and many of the players plying their trade in the UK. Much more about the athleticism than skill or composure, and a real absence of robust challenges.

Finally, I got to hear the Australian national anthem, called ‘Advance Australia Fair’. You can hear that below. Unfortunately I didn’t hear a whisper of Waltzing Matilda…