Australia will host Saudi Arabia in the third round of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers on Thursday.

The Socceroos held Japan to a 1-1 draw in the previous World Cup qualifier. With just one win from four matches, Tony Popovic’s men are currently placed second in Group C standings.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia also have five points from the first four games, but sit third in the table, just below Australia, due to an inferior goal difference. They are coming off a goalless draw with Bahrain. 

The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match, kickoff times, and the latest lineup news.

MORE: Socceroos vs Saudi Arabia live blog

Socceroos vs. Saudi Arabia live stream, TV channel

Here’s how to watch this World Cup qualifier match in Australia:

This game is available for live TV broadcast on Channel 10 in Australia. Streaming options are available on Paramount+, who are offering a seven-day free trial for new customers on their streaming service.

What time does Socceroos vs. Saudi Arabia kick off?

This World Cup qualifier takes place at Melbourne Rectangular Stadium, Australia, and kicks off on Thursday, November 14, at 8:00 p.m. local time.

Here’s how that time translates across Australia:

Socceroos vs. Saudi Arabia lineups, team news

Australia will welcome Sam Silvera who served a suspension last month. Nestory Irankunda should also be back in action after picking an unspecified injury against China. 

Jackson Irvine will wear the captain’s armband, while Craig Goodwin and McGree will provide support to Mitch Duke in the attack. 

Socceroos predicted XI (3-4-2-1, right to left): Gauci (GK) — Souttar, Deng, Rowles— Miller, O’Neill, Irvine, Behich—Goodwin, McGree—Duke

Injured: None
Suspended: None

Abdulelah Al-Malki‘s return will boost Saudi Arabia. Salem Al-Dawsari and Firas Al-Buraikan are likely retain their positions in the attack despite a poor show against Japan. 

Manager Herve Renard may make the last-minute call to pick either Stefan Al-Shehri or Ayman Ahmed on the wing.

Saudi Arabia predicted XI (4-3-3, right to left): Al-Kassar (GK) — Abdulhamid, Al Tambakti, Lajami, Kadesh— Aljuwayr, Al-Malki, N. Al-Dawsari—Al-Shehri, Al-Buraikan, S. Al-Dawsari

Injured: None
Suspended: None

Socceroos vs. Saudi Arabia prediction 

The Socceroos delivered a much-improved performance against Japan last month under new manager Popovic. Australia have an unbeaten record on home soil against the Green Falcons, and they will be keen to extend that dominance.

Though the Asian side can cause a few concerns, Australia, playing in front of their home crowd, should take three points from this match.

• Prediction: Socceroos 2-1 Saudi Arabia