Rayan’s Last-Gasp Header Earns Brazil 1-1 Draw Against Australia
Brazil salvaged a 1-1 draw against Australia when Rayan headed in with the last touch of Friday’s match at Queensland Country Bank Stadium.
What we know
- Nestory Irankunda put Australia ahead in the 68th minute with a free-kick.
- Rayan’s late header denied the Socceroos victory in a closely fought game.
- The playing surface became the main post-match issue, with players from both sides struggling on a slippery pitch that deteriorated during the contest.
- Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti said the surface was not good enough and made playing difficult. He wants improved conditions for the return fixture.
- Australia manager Tony Popovic accepted Ancelotti’s complaint but said his side regularly encounters unsatisfactory pitches during qualifying matches.
- Midfielder Jackson Irvine said Australia are used to similar grass surfaces in Asia, although he admitted it caused frustrating moments. “It’s the same for both teams,” he said.
Next step: Brazil and Australia meet again in Brisbane
The teams now head to Lang Park in Brisbane for Tuesday’s rematch. Both coaches will hope for a more reliable surface after the venue hosted an NRL preliminary final on Friday night.
