Socceroos in mourning as Mabil's sister killed in car crash

Australia's ex-refugee football international Awer Mabil was hit by tragedy after his sister died in a car crash shortly before he played in Asian Cup quarter-final.

Bor Mabil, 19, was killed in the accident in Adelaide just hours before Australia's 1-0 defeat to hosts UAE, in which Awer Mabil was a second-half substitute.

Reports said Awer, 23, was unaware of the tragedy when he took the field. Football Federation Australia said he was receiving support.

"FFA extends its deepest sympathies to Awer, the Mabil family, and Bor's friends, at this difficult time," a statement said.

"FFA is providing support to Awer, his team-mates and Socceroos staff in the United Arab Emirates."