Socceroos coach Postecoglou glum after 32 defeat against Germany
Australia head coach Ange Postecoglou cut a disappointed figure after their 3-2 opening Confederations Cup defeat to Germany, but expects the Socceroos to bounce back against Cameroon on Thursday.
Having been hammered 4-0 by Brazil in Melbourne last week in a friendly ahead of the tournament in Russia, Australia stumbled again, losing to the world champions, who fielded an inexperienced side on Monday in Sochi.
Lars Stindl, Leon Goretzka and Julian Draxler -- the latter from a penalty -- scored for Germany, with Celtic midfielder Tommy Rogic and Tomi Juric netting for Australia.
HANDBALL
Juric’s effort on 56 minutes was allowed to stand despite a suggestion of handball leading to a review from the video assistant referee.
Having found themselves 3-1 down just after the break, Australia rallied in Sochi and Juric’s effort reduced the deficit before he, Robbie Kruse and James Troisi all tested Germany goalkeeper Bernd Leno late on.
There was to be no equaliser, and Postecoglou was especially disappointed about the way his side started the game.
“It’s disappointing, we were barely clinging on in the first half,” admitted Postecoglou.
“The second half was better, we composed ourselves and got back into things.
“It’s a loss and the loss falls on me, it’s my responsibility.
“It was no fault of the players, they (Germany) took advantage in the first half and they were way too good.”