Popovic tells Australia to ‘improve in all areas’ despite Japan draw

Tony Popovic told his Australia team they must “improve all over the park” as he challenged them to become the best side in Asia.

The Socceroos claimed a battling 1-1 away draw with Japan on Tuesday to move onto five points in Group C in the decisive third round of Asian World Cup qualifying.

Popovic was appointed last month when Graham Arnold stepped down after starting the campaign with a home loss to Bahrain and an away draw with Indonesia.

Popovic began his reign with a 3-1 home win over China last week and said he was “very happy” with four points from his first two games.

But he also urged his players to “improve in all areas” and cited group leaders Japan as a role model.

“It’s not just creativity, we have to improve all over the park because we are aspiring to challenge Japan,” said the 51-year-old.

“Challenging them regularly as the best team in Asia. To do that we know we have to improve.”

Popovic made six changes to the starting line-up that beat China and handed an international debut to 34-year-old midfielder Luke Brattan.

The Socceroos took the lead in the second half when Japan defender Shogo Taniguchi scored an own goal, before Cameron Burgess also put through his own net.

Japan had not conceded in eight previous games in World Cup qualifying.

“Hopefully that gives the players confidence moving forward that we’re building a foundation,” said Popovic.

“Hopefully next camp in November we can add some more layers to it.”

Australia’s next World Cup qualifier is home to Saudi Arabia on November 14, before they travel to face Bahrain five days later.

“It’s positive,” said Popovic.

“Every game is difficult, every game is important and Saudi Arabia will be the same.

“It’s our home game, we want everyone to get behind us, and to create this type of atmosphere in Melbourne would be special.”