FIFA World Cup: France vs Australia, 5 Talking Points

#4 Sainsbury and Mooy shine the brightest for Australia

Aaron Mooy delivered a Man of the Match performance

The Socceroos were more of a cohesive unit than France, at least when you consider how they defended today. But centre-back Trent Sainsbury was the star in this obdurate backline. The 26-year-old was a livewire throughout, marking his opposite numbers to perfection and even jumping into tackles and nipping the danger in the bud with his crucial clearances.

He imbued a great sense of positioning and afforded little time and space in the box for the lurking French forwards. Sainsbury also communicated well with Milligan, exemplifying Australia's physical defensive approach.

Ahead of him, Aaron Mooy turned in an impressive all-round display. The Huddersfield midfielder helped out defensively with tight man-marking, whilst he utilised possession well whenever on the ball.

His 79 touches is second only to Milligan, while he won all five of the tackles he challenged for. When Australia put on their attacking boots, Mooy was once again a central figure -passing the ball around with intent, while crucially regaining possession in dangerous areas.