The Socceroos were left “searching for a spark” with 10 men against Bahrain as Kusini Yengi was sent from the field for an ugly collision with Sayed Baqer.
Tensions quickly ignited in the third round of the 2026 World Cup qualifer, with Bahrain recording a historic first victory courtesy of a Harry Souttar error.
In a bid to deter Bahrain’s attack, Australia found themselves down to 10 men as striker Yengi was pinged for a high flying boot.
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Rushing in for an airborne ball that was on route to Baqer just metres out from the box, Yengi raised his leg in attempt to clear the ball.
The Bahraini-national dropped to the turf in a similar fashion to his preceding teammates as the referee raised a red card towards Yengi.
The Socceroos striker was immediately apologetic for the incident, dismissing suggestions that the action was done with malice.
“Wow. Australia down to 10 for the final quarter of an hour,” Simon Hill called on Network 10’s commentary.
“He knew that he had caught his opponent. He immediately went to apologise. Well, that wasn’t in the script.”
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Taking advantage of their rivals reduction, Bahrain broke an 18 year record courtesy of a deflection from Harry Souttar that found the back of the net.
Earlier, Bahrain produced a solid performance in fiery fashion on Australia solid, recording two shots on targets in the first 45 minutes.
The intense battle was filled with successive stoppages, with free kicks and breaks in play halting the momentum of the Socceroos.
“I don’t think we played five minutes continuously,” Mitch Duke told Network 10 post-match.
“Every three minutes there was someone on the floor, something happening but I can’t comment on that, but it’s disappointing.
“I think we will go back in the change room and focus on Indonesia and the important thing is winning that game. This game is in the past, nothing more we can do.”
The Socceroos will face Indonesia on Tuesday, September 10.