SYDNEY (Reuters) - Under-pressure Australia coach Ange Postecoglou has downplayed the significance of Tuesday's World Cup qualifier against United Arab Emirates as the Socceroos battle to remain in contention for an automatic berth to Russia in 2018. Australia sit third in Group B of Asian qualifying after their 1-1 draw against Iraq, three points adrift of leaders Saudi Arabia and Japan. Only the top two are guaranteed qualification for Russia and with four games remaining, Australia's hopes of a fourth straight World Cup appearance could hinge on the outcome of the meeting at Sydney Football Stadium. "Obviously it's a World Cup qualifier and we've kind of set up an environment where we prepare for each game the same way and this is no different. The third-placed Uzbeks take on lowly 2022 World Cup hosts Qatar and need a win to reignite their challenge which has stalled after starting with back-to-back wins.

Source: The Star March 27, 2017 07:07 UTC