MONTEVIDEO, Nov 12 (SW) - Australia are further away from the World Cup than ever, as the Socceroos suffered a 1-0 defeat in Uruguay.

Just like four years ago, Uruguay qualified for the intercontinental playoff thanks to a win over Argentina, and just like then, they face Australia in the final battle to obtain a spot at the 2006 World Cup.

The South Americans scored the only goal of the match after 35 minutes. A powerful strike from Internazionale's Alvaro Recoba was directed into the goal by Dario Rodriguez.

The second leg will be played in Australia on Wednesday.