Socceroos v China: Player ratings for the Asian Cup quarter-final in Brisbane

VOTE NOW: We run the rule over Australia’s 2-0 win against China. Who starred, and who struggled? Check our ratings and then cast your vote!

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 22: Tim Cahill of Australia celebrates with team mates after scoring a goal during the 2015 Asian Cup match between China PR and the Australian Socceroos at Suncorp Stadium on January 22, 2015 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)

THE Socceroos are into the semi-finals thanks to a 2-0 win over China in Brisbane.

Who starred and who struggled?

Read on for our player ratings and cast your vote as well!

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1. MAT RYAN 8

Made some good saves early but was used heaps with his feet as the defence struggled with China’s press. Stood up again late in the game with three top blocks.

2. IVAN FRANJIC 6.5

Wasn’t tested much defensively but bombed on constantly and his gambling paid off as he headed goal-ward to Cahill for his opening goal.

23. TRENT SAINSBURY 8

Best game in Socceroos colours. Poised, mopped up well and pushed into midfield on occasions in Matthew Spiranovic’s absence. Produced some key tackles.

22. ALEX WILKINSON 6

Replaced suspended Spiranovic and was really tested early on. But he overcame the challenge and had a decent match.

3. JASON DAVIDSON 6.5

Surprisingly picked ahead of Aziz Behich. Was robust and physical and overlapped to support the wingers. Produced a nice cross from the left for Cahill’s second goal.

15. MILE JEDINAK 5.5

Looked rusty after missing the last two games, turning the ball over on too many occasions in the first half. But settled in the second half.

21. MASSIMO LUONGO 7.5

Struggled to get into the game early and was forced wide to get the ball, but his second half was very good, and his stellar run forced the corner for the first goal.

23. MARK BRESCIANO 5.5

Took a while to adapt to the speed of the game in his first Asian Cup start, but was a constant threat with his pinpoint set pieces and had a golden chance to score just before coming off.

10. ROBBIE KRUSE 6.5

Didn’t get good service early, and eventually got more ball. Toiled hard but for little reward. Will be better for the run.

7. MATHEW LECKIE 7.5

Was the attacking instigator as Australia’s wrestled the ascendancy from China after a nervy start, and he caused the defence issues with his pace and directness.

4. TIM CAHILL 8.5

His ability to get his head on seemingly hopeful balls is phenomenal. His penchant for producing the extraordinary when it counts - like his bicycle-kick goal - is even more admirable.

14. JAMES TROISI 4.5

Came on for Bresciano in the 61st minute and had a chance but didn’t settle in a game that turned frantic late.

16. NATHAN BURNS 4.5

Was given over 20 minutes after replacing Leckie and caused China issues with overseas scouts watching, but couldn’t get on the scoresheet.

5. MARK MILLIGAN 5

Replaced Cahill with 10 minutes to go and had a golden chance to score with a brilliant run in the dying minutes. But didn’t have time for much else.

Originally published as Socceroos v China: Player ratings for the Asian Cup quarter-final in Brisbane