Bahrain v Australia: Asia World Cup Qualifying preview

Australia head into their World Cup qualifier against Bahrain in much need of all three points as the battle for second spot in Group C hots up.

Japan already have the group in the bag as they sit top of the pile, seven points ahead of Australia, Saudi Arabia and China, who are all locked on six points.

The Socceroos currently hold second spot on goal difference, but they cannot rely on that to get them through, so need wins.

That may be easier said than done against a Bahrain side who have already shocked them on one occasion in this campaign.

Bahrain v Australia betting preview

Socceroos in need of goals

The Socceroos have issues to solve in front of goal if they are to finish in second spot in Group C and qualify automatically for the World Cup.

They have scored just once across their last two games and that was an own goal in the 1-1 draw against Japan.

In their latest qualifier, the Socceroos missed a host of chances in a 0-0 draw against Saudi Arabia, meaning head coach Tony Popovic may consider making changes.

Mitch Duke has failed to score in his last 12 appearances for the Socceroos and it could be time for him to step out of the starting line-up.

Kusini Yengi looked sharp when coming off the bench against the Saudis and is pushing for a starting role against Bahrain.

Brandon Borrello is another after he came on to replace Duke in the 74th minute. He looked lively but missed a great opportunity to win the match himself.

Popovic will have plenty to consider as the Socceroos target much-needed goals and points and he does have concerns over the fitness of Nishan Velupillay, who picked up an ankle injury against Saudi Arabia.

However, there is good news regards Craig Goodwin, who returns from suspension.

Bahrain looking to bounce back

Bahrain have picked up five points so far in qualifying to keep them right in the mix for the second automatic qualifying spot.

They have shocked Australia already this campaign when winning 1-0 in Queensland and on home soil will look to do the same again.

Bahrain did suffer a setback when losing 1-0 at home to China on Thursday and will be desperate to bounce back against the Socceroos.

Despite a 5-0 loss to Japan, Bahrain can keep things tight and also held Saudi Arabia to a goalless draw.

Given the fact that Australia are struggling to hit the back of the net, another tight, low-scoring game could be on the cards.

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Bahrain v Australia odds

Bahrain - 5.50
Draw - 3.90
Australia - 1.60

View the full market and more odds for Bahrain v Australia on site.

This article was written by a partner sports writer via Spotlight Sports Group. All odds displayed on this page were correct at the time of writing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.