Australia prepare for "new coach bounce" against Saudi Arabia

Socceroos aim to kick-start World Cup campaign with victory in Jeddah

Graham Arnold's men looking to make a statement under new leadership

Australia will be hoping to make a positive start to their World Cup campaign when they take on Saudi Arabia in Jeddah on Thursday.

The Socceroos have endured a difficult qualifying campaign, but they will be hoping for a "new coach bounce" under the leadership of Graham Arnold.

Arnold has been in charge of the Socceroos for just two games, but he has already made a positive impact.

Australia beat Kuwait 4-0 in a friendly in October, and they followed that up with a 1-1 draw against South Korea in November.

Arnold has brought a new sense of optimism to the Socceroos, and he will be hoping that his team can carry that into the World Cup.

Saudi Arabia will be no pushovers, but Australia will be confident of getting a result in Jeddah.

The Socceroos have a good record against Saudi Arabia, and they will be looking to continue that run on Thursday.

Australia's strengths and weaknesses

Australia's strengths lie in their attack. The Socceroos have a number of talented attacking players, including Tom Rogic, Aaron Mooy and Mathew Leckie.

However, Australia's defence has been a concern in recent months. The Socceroos have conceded goals in each of their last four games.

Arnold will need to find a way to shore up his defence if Australia are to have a successful World Cup.

Saudi Arabia's strengths and weaknesses

Saudi Arabia's strengths lie in their midfield. The Green Falcons have a number of talented midfielders, including Salman Al-Faraj and Taiseer Al-Jassim.

However, Saudi Arabia's defence has also been a concern in recent months. The Green Falcons have conceded goals in each of their last three games.

Saudi Arabia will need to find a way to improve their defence if they are to have a successful World Cup.

Prediction

Australia will be confident of getting a result against Saudi Arabia in Jeddah.

The Socceroos have a good record against Saudi Arabia, and they will be looking to continue that run on Thursday.

However, Saudi Arabia will be no pushovers. The Green Falcons have a number of talented players, and they will be looking to make a statement in front of their home fans.

I predict that Australia will win the game 2-1.