Kusini Yengi netted his first goal for Australia on his full debut as the Socceroos beat 5-0 in their World Cup qualifier.
It was a dream start for the Portsmouth star, who opened the scoring within two minutes. It’s been a whirlwind couple of weeks for the 25-year-old after his goal against Peterborough United to hand John Mousinho’s side a vital three points.
Yengi’s fine form has been rewarded, and Australian media channel Fox Sports has cast their thoughts on his performance on Tuesday evening.
Kusini Yengi lauded by Fox Sports on full Australia debut v Lebanon
After the fixture, Fox Sports journalist Zac Rayson assessed Yengi’s performance.
“No Socceroos striker had scored in six-straight matches. Then Craig Goodwin set up his former Adelaide United teammate Yengi for the young gun’s maiden Socceroos goal,” he wrote.
“The pair did Goodwin’s trademark celebration together in an emotional moment. His penetration and running behind the lines were excellent all night, while his confidence was on full display.
“In a stacked list of strikers in the squad, vying for contention, it was a statement that he is the man to take the number nine jersey in the long term.”
Should Yengi start against Wycombe Wanderers on Friday?
Of course, Yengi has his fair share of travelling to do before Portsmouth’s clash with Wycombe Wanderers on Friday, which could influence Mousinho’s decision.
The 25-year-old has to travel over 10,000 miles before Thursday to ensure he’s in contention for the Adams Park clash.
Realistically, starting Colby Bishop with Paddy Lane returning to the side seems the most likely solution. Myles Peart-Harris, who has been a consistent starter since his January move from Brentford, can slot into the more advanced role just behind the number nine.
Yengi’s presence on the bench certainly provides Pompey with an explosive option should a goal be required. Tuesday’s clash against Derby County would seem the more likely fixture for the Aussie to be involved in.