Australia Socceroos v Tunisia result: Player ratings from Qatar World Cup

Tunisia threw everything at them but the Socceroos held firm to win their first World Cup match in more than a decade – and some new heroes emerged. See every player’s rating.

Who were the heroes of Australia’s first World Cup win in 12 years?

A courageous Socceroos outfit have won their first World Cup game for more than a decade after denying a spirited late charge from Tunisia in their second Group D match.

A matchwinning tackle by Australia’s Harry Souttar emphasised the desperation of the Socceroos as Tunisia threw everything at them in search of an equaliser in the dying minutes.

But in true Aussie style, led by midfield general Aaron Mooy, the Socceroos held firm under the intense pressure in the second half.

Earlier, Mitch Duke put Australia in front with a special goal when he headed home in the 23rd minute.

After scoring his attention turned to one of his biggest fans — with the long-limbed Socceroo gesturing to his son Jaxson in the stands, who gave dad the thumbs up.

It marked a superb first half by Australia, which was a different beast to the one which surrendered to France when thrashed 4-1 in its opening match.

The Socceroos face Denmark — which plays France later Saturday — in their final group game and the knockout round is in sight.