by Tom Allen
Still all to play for in Group D and both Australia and Serbia still harbour
hopes of advancing to the last 16 in South Africa.
Serbia, cheering on Germany to beat Ghana in the other match in this section,
will probably advance with just a point against the Socceroos but, while I think
they'll get it, I couldn't be backing them at odds on to gain the win they need
to secure qualification.
Miroslav Klose's red card turned the game very much Serbia's favour when they
clashed with the Germans last Friday, Milan Jovanovic's strike proving enough in
a 1-0 win, but they didn't convince throughout and their opponents were unlucky
not to grab a share of the spoils.
Serbia kicked-off their South Africa 2010 campaign with a 1-0 defeat at the
hands of Ghana, when desperately disappointing, and manager Radomir Antic will
be thankful that their destiny remains very much in their own hands.
Antic's men take on an Australian side that showed terrific heart to salvage
a 1-1 draw with Ghana last time out, having had Harry Kewell sent off for
deliberate handball in the first half, but their 4-0 defeat to Germany means it
will be very difficult for them to overhaul two of the sides currently above
them in Group D and only a comprehensive win will do.
Australia welcome back star man Tim Cahill for the clash with Serbia, the
Everton forward was suspended for the match with the Black Stars, but it is in
defence where they have looked vulnerable and I expect Serbia to cause them
problems.
The aforementioned Jovanovic and fellow playmaker Milos Krasic impressed
versus Germany and, given Serbia's strength at the back, one goal will probably
be enough for at least a share of the spoils.
I'm of the view that any side reaching the knockout stages at South Africa
2010 has realistic claims of lifting the trophy and if Serbia and keep key
defenders such as Nemanja Vidic and Branislav Ivanovic healthy then anything is
possible.
With another clean sheet in prospect for the Europeans, this match looks
poised to be another low-scoring affair and I'm surprised to see 8/13 available
across the board (888sport
for two or less goals to feature).
It's sure to be a nervous evening for fans of all four countries involved in
Group D's climax and should make for compelling viewing.
1pt Back Under 2.50 Goals (Serbia vs. Australia) @ 8/13 (888sport)
