Switzerland and Australia played out a 1-1 draw in their final FIFA World Cup warm-up match, with the result ending the Socceroos’ three-game losing streak against teams ranked inside the world’s top 25 since securing qualification.

Switzerland’s preparations for a sixth straight World Cup appearance had been far from smooth, with star striker Breel Embolo arriving late in the United States and missing the match in San Diego. Despite an early threat from Australia through a dangerous corner delivered by Nestory Irankunda, the Swiss quickly found their rhythm.

The breakthrough came in the 14th minute when Dan Ndoye met a superb lofted pass from Granit Xhaka. The forward timed his run perfectly before calmly finishing from close range beyond goalkeeper Patrick Beach.

Switzerland controlled much of the first half after taking the lead, dictating possession and limiting Australia’s opportunities. The Socceroos did threaten from a Cristian Volpato free-kick that found Harry Souttar at the far post, but the defender’s header drifted wide under pressure from Silvan Widmer.

Ndoye nearly doubled Switzerland’s advantage before the interval, only for Beach to react sharply and deny the Nottingham Forest attacker.

Australia emerged after the break with greater intensity and almost found an immediate equaliser when Gregor Kobel tipped Irankunda’s powerful long-range effort onto the crossbar.

Their improved display was eventually rewarded as substitute Connor Metcalfe provided a precise pass for Tete Yengi, who marked his Socceroos debut with a composed finish. The striker capitalised on a defensive lapse from Switzerland to level the scores and secure a draw for Tony Popovic’s side.

Switzerland continued to press for what could have been a winning goal, with Cedric Itten coming close when he connected with Miro Muheim’s cross, only to see his header skim over the top of the net.

The Swiss looked the more dangerous side in the closing stages and appeared most likely to find a late breakthrough. However, they were unable to convert their chances, and the match ended in a 1-1 draw.

While neither team could claim victory, the contest provided a valuable final test ahead of the World Cup, giving both sides positives to take forward as they continue their preparations for the tournament.