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Australia goalie 'found out the same time' as us he was being subbed out for penalty kicks
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- Australia goalie 'found out the same time' as us he was being subbed out for penalty kicks
ARLINGTON, TX — Australia manager Tony Popovic made an interesting decision with only 44 seconds left in extra time in the Socceroos' loss to Egypt in the World Cup's round of 32 on Friday, July 3. He subbed out his goalkeeper for penalty kicks.
Starting goalkeeper Patrick Beach, who kept the game tied at 1-1 in the final seconds of regulation with an impressive one-handed save, was removed in favor of backup Mathew Ryan. It didn't work out in Australia's favor, as it fell to Egypt 4-2 in penalty kicks.
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Beach had been excellent for Australia in its four World Cup games, and was caught by surprise when he was removed for Ryan, who was the expected starter entering the tournament.
"I found out the same time you guys did," Beach said after the loss. "Obviously, there was a plan that was put in place. It wasn't for us to know about. Our job is just to focus on the game and the moment, and obviously there was a general decision and discussion that was held, and that's it.
"Coaches made that decision, and as far as it goes, (Ryan) had to do the job. Whatever works best for the team, means the best guy comes (on) for our team."
Beach later defended his coaches' decision.
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"I would've loved to be in the penalty shootout, but that's the decision that the bosses made. There's no other feelings than I respect him and respect their decision."
It was the first time since 2014 a goalkeeper was subbed out ahead of penalty kicks, last occurring in 2014 when the Netherlands replaced Jasper Cillessen for Tim Krul in the 120th minute. The Dutch went on to win, however.
Beach only had two caps for the national team entering the World Cup, with Ryan having played in four previous World Cups. Perhaps Ryan's veteran presence won out, but it was an interesting decision, nonetheless.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Australia goalie 'found out the same time' as us he was being subbed out for penalty kicks
