Thailand vs Australia

Needing only a point to seal progression to the final round of Asian qualifying, starting in June, Australia had to soak up some heavy pressure at Supachalasai Stadium before Holman's 76th minute header put the outcome beyond doubt.

The result means Holger Osieck's side heads into its final Group D qualifier at home against Saudi Arabia in February knowing the job is already done, possibly allowing the German coach to experiment with his squad.

Despite talk of being determined to atone for Friday's shock 1-0 loss to Oman in Muscat, the Socceroos were far from convincing on a humid Bangkok evening.

But the ever-improving Holman again proved his worth with his second goal in three international matches.

The AZ Alkmaar striker found Brett Emerton out wide and the Sydney FC winger sent in a fine cross before Holman steered a header into the back of the net.

Emerton was one of two changes to the starting side from the loss in Oman, with Michael Zullo also coming in as injured Harry Kewell and Rhys Williams made way.

Despite beginning with a familiar-looking team Australia looked disjointed and struggled to control possession for much of the first half.

They were lucky to go into the break level, with the only genuine chance of the half falling to the host.

Impressive midfielder Datsakorn Thonglao pulled all the strings for Thailand, producing an exquisite through ball in the 35th minute only for Suree Sukha to blast over the bar from close range.

Australia's left side, particularly Zullo, was bombarded by the lively Thais while the Socceroos were restricted to only two efforts on goal for the half.

Both fell to the head of in-form striker Josh Kennedy but neither attempt troubled Thailand goalkeeper Kosin Hathairattanakool.

The Thais continued to threaten early in the second half and tension was building until Holman intervened.

Thailand's best chance to equalise fell to substitute Sarawut Masuk but he couldn't keep a close-range shot down.

Australia moved to 12 points in Group D, ensuring it will top the section.

Midfielder Matt McKay will be ineligible to face Saudi Arabia after picking up a second-half yellow card.