Australia have retained the Soccer Ashes trophy after beating the All Whites 2-0 in London at Brentford’s GTech Community Stadium. 

The Socceroos win sees the trophy remain in Australia where it was rediscovered earlier this year after being lost for nearly 70 years. 

The defeat for the All Whites came courtesy of goals from Mitchell Duke (13’) and Jackson Irvine (76’). 

The All Whites started the stronger of the two sides and impressed in the opening 10 minutes but weren’t able to convert any of their possession into chances. 

The Socceroos opening goal came after a deep cross was headed back to Mitchell Duke who acrobatically finished on the half volley from close range. There was some initial confusion if the ball touched Socceroos defender Harry Souttar but the referees report attributed the goal to Duke. 

The All Whites continued to push for an equaliser but it ended 1-0 to the team in green and gold at the break. 

 

The second half continued the pattern of the first with the All Whites playing some neat passing football but not being able to convert it to clear cut chances.  

The best opportunity to find the equaliser came in the 64’ minute when Bill Tuiloma rattled the crossbar with a freekick. 

But it was Australia who were next to find the net. Jackson Irvine found space at the back post to head in a well taken corner and claim the Soccer Ashes title for the Socceroos. 

Speaking after the game, All Whites head coach Darren Bazeley was proud of his team but acknowledged they still have work to do to compete with more established sides like the Socceroos: 

"We came up against a pretty good team that played some pretty good football. 

“But I'm still proud of our lads, we're a very young team, really willing, hardworking, and we had some moments where we played some good football. 

“We tried to play a certain style, and we just probably lacked that little bit extra experience and that little bit extra maybe quality in moments where we could maybe take advantage of some of our good play. 

“Whereas Australia have got some good players with some good experience, and they hurt us. 

“But to concede off two set pieces is a little bit disappointing. 

“I think there's way more to come from us, we're a team that's growing. 

“We've got a lot of youth in the team and we'll get better and better, and it will be better for this.”

Article added: Wednesday 18 October 2023