The Socceroos must believe in themselves more against top opponents, says coach Tony Popovic, after a nervous first half proved costly in Australia's fiery 1-0 World Cup warm-up loss to co-hosts Mexico.
In the last game before Popovic picks his squad for the World Cup on June 1, Johan Vasquez's header in the 28th minute proved the difference.
Australia were dominated by the world No.15 side in the opening half in front of a raucous, parochial crowd of 78,479 fans at the Rose Bowl, though Mohamed Toure should have equalised on the stroke of halftime.
The Socceroos responded with a vastly improved and more threatening performance after halftime, with Ajdin Hrustic having a great chance blocked in the 67th minute.
