McGree helps Socceroos put drama behind them and leave Qatar reeling

Australia beat Qatar 3-0 in Doha, putting aside a week of off-field debate to deliver a commanding performance. The result matters as Tony Popovic’s side showed how their high press can create goals and help them pursue a more dominant role in Asian football.

Riley McGree opened the scoring in the fifth minute, his first goal for Australia in more than four years; Tete Yengi and Nestory Irankunda added goals before half-time. Qatar did not manage a shot on target, while the result increased pressure on coach Julen Lopetegui ahead of a fixture against South Korea. Australia’s next match against Jordan had been moved to Doha amid continuing discussion over the game.