Heartbreak for Honduras as hat-trick hero Jedinak sends Socceroos to World Cup

There was a great atmosphere in and around the ANZ Stadium for a clash of huge importance for both sides, and the home fans rose to the occasion with a fantastic display of support as the Socceroos eyed their fifth-ever qualification for the World Cup.

Once the referee blew his whistle and the match got underway, tensions began to rise and a physical battle of epic proprotions ensued. Australia saw the majority of the ball while remaining coy in their offensive efforts, with crunching challenges underlining the crucial nature of the fixture.

Postecoglou appeared to urge his men to target the right flank of the Hondurans' back line with Aaron Mooy dropping wide to support the surging forward runs from Aziz Behich, who ultimately played a vital role in breaking down the visitors.

Honduras keeper Escober was first tested when Mooy whipped in a tantalising ball from the left that bounced awkwardly in front of the keeper who just about managed to palm it away, and the clearest chance of the first half also came from the same side of the pitch when Behich pulled the ball back from the byline for Tom Rogic to fire from 10 yards. The Celtic man could not get enough power behind his effort and Escober was equal to it.

The Socceroos continued to dominate possession after the break and it was only a matter of time before the deadlock was broken. Honduras defended admirably right up until the first goal which saw Pinto's team unravel. Australia needed a stroke of luck and it came when Jedinak's free-kick from 20 yards took a wicked deflection off Henry Figueroa and beat the keeper to give Australia a priceless lead.

The crowd came to life in Sydney and the game opened up with Honduras compelled to attack in need of an equaliser. Tensions were effectively alleviated with 20 minutes to go, when Bryan Acosta's handball gave Jedinak the chance to step up an convert from the spot. The 77,060 crowd breathed a huge sigh of relief.

Australia's captain then sent the keeper the wrong way with another penalty to send the home fans into delirium before Honduras grabbed a late consolation goal with the last kick of the game. It was heartbreak for the travelling fans while the stadium erupted with an outpouring of joy and fireworks exploded in the Sydney Harbour.