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Socceroos' World Cup hopes alive after Denmark draw

Australia’s hopes of progressing to the World Cup knockout stage remain alive after a 1-1 draw with Denmark.

The Socceroos conceded a goal to Tottenham star Christian Eriksen in the seventh minute after being cut open down the left.

But a VAR intervention delivered a penalty to Australia with just under 10 minutes to go in the first half.

Denmark’s Yussuf Poulsen handled the ball after a Mathew Leckie header towards goal, and captain Mile Jedinak converted for his second goal of the tournament.

“The disappointment is actually after two games we should have had four points,” Socceroos coach Bert van Marwijk said.

“We deserved it. We played very well against the No.12 team in the world so we can be proud again.”

Socceroos. Pic: Getty
Socceroos. Pic: Getty

Daniel Arzani provided a number of highlights for Australia in the second half after the 19-year-old made another appearance off the bench.

But shots on goal from the teenager, Tom Rogic, Aaron Mooy and Mathew Leckie couldn’t find the back of the net.

“I think we were a bit unlucky not to get a goal in the end,” Arzani said.

“I’m buzzing. I’m really happy but I felt like I fell short a little bit because I wanted to come on and assist a goal or create a goal, just help the team really.”

Andrew Nabbout suffered a suspected dislocated shoulder in what is likely to be a heartbreaking end to his World Cup campaign.

Australia will need to defeat Peru in the final game on Tuesday night and likely receive a favourable result in France’s clash with Denmark to make it out of Group C.