Tom Rogic’s goal against Syria earned Australia a 3-2 win and sealed their place in the last-16 of the Asia Cup today.
Rogic’s goal meant that Australia finish group B in second place on six points. The Aussies would’ve ended up going through anyway thanks to Jordan and Palestine’s 0-0 draw in the other contest.
The game between the Socceroos and Syria, however, was perfectly poised at 2-2 heading into added time. Rogic’s fine effort from the edge of the penalty box was enough to seal matters regardless.
https://twitter.com/MuiryCeltic/status/1085196316907458560
Rogic certainly deserves that moment this afternoon. He has come in for plenty of criticism from Australian supporters regarding his general displays at international level.
It all particularly came to a head after their shock defeat to Jordan on match-day one. He’s been one of many Aussie stars to have struggled in adapting to the tournament since leaving their clubs.
Celtic will be ruing what they’re missing
Celtic infamously tried to get Rogic to play in the Glasgow derby last month of course. Now, however, it appears he’s finally showing his true worth to his country.
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It’s actually a mini-blow for Celtic too. Australia’s qualification means that Rogic remains away from Scotland for at least another week. Should Australia go all the way, Rogic could miss all Celtic action up until Feberuary 1st.
That means the latest Celtic could have their Aussie star back is for the Hibernian game on February 6th. The Hoops are also in action against St Johnstone at McDiarmid Park on the third, but Rogic would never be back in time for that one.
Regardless, it’s great to see him finally putting a smile on his country’s face. Australia still don’t know who they’ll be facing on January 21st. All they know is that it will be the runners up of Group F. That leaves either Japan or Uzbekistan, with both sides level on points and facing each other in two days’ time (January 17th).
In the meantime, Rogic can put his feet up and relax. After plenty of criticism, he’s done his national service today.