Australia coach Pim Verbeek has clashed with a Qatari journalist during preparations for their World Cup qualifier. Verbeek was asked why his team was "so strong", while the A-League was "not so famous".

"How do you know it's not good?" a clearly annoyed Verbeek barked back. "Have you ever been to Australia? No, so you have no opinion.

"... You've heard that from the media? Don't believe the media."

The journalist pointed out that the Socceroos' squad for the Qatar match was comprised mostly of European-based players.

"That's the way it is but that does not mean the A-League is no good," Verbeek said.

"Look at Adelaide, who was in Asian Champions League final last time?

"It was not a Qatari side was it? No, it was Adelaide.

"But they play in Australia?" he added sarcastically.