Australia starting lineup vs Turkey confirmed for FIFA World Cup 2026 clash
(Courtesy : Getty Images)
The Socceroos are beginning their World Cup 2026 campaign against Turkey.
Australia and Turkey face off in Vancouver to kick off their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign. This marks only the third encounter between the two parties, and the first since 2004.
Australia have been a regular side in the World Cup in the twenty-first century, though recent iterations have struggled to match the golden age that dazzled in Germany in 2006. The Socceroos fought hard to reach the last 16 in Qatar. Some may expect them to upset a few this summer, considering their solid performance.
It will be difficult for the Socceroos to make a significant impression at this summer’s event. But they will expect to advance from a group that includes the United States and Paraguay.
Australia’s confirmed lineup vs Turkey for FIFA World Cup 2026 clash (3-4-2-1)
Goalkeepers: Patrick Beach
Defenders: Alessandro Circati, Harry Souttar, Cameron Burgess
Midfielders: Jacob Italiano, Aidan O’Neill, Paul Okon, Jordan Bos
Forwards: Nestory Irankunda, Connor Metcalfe, Mohamed Toure
Substitutes: Ryan, Degenek, Geria, Leckie, Hrustic, Mabil, Izzo, Devlin, Trewin, Behich, Volpato, Irvine, Vellupillay, Herringhton, Yengi
Thoughts on the lineup
Tony Popovic, who extended his contract on the eve of the competition, will field a back three against Turkey.
Harry Souttar likely believed his World Cup chances were over when he tore his Achilles tendon in December 2024. But he recovered in time to make Popovic’s lineup. He’ll be at the heart of Australia’s defence this summer. Same as he was in Qatar.
The unique Paul Okon will lead Australia’s engine room. Popovic has a wildcard in Nestory Irankunda, who has the speed to make the Socceroos a counterattacking force. Meanwhile, Volpato will be used as a lethal option off the bench on Saturday.
Meanwhile, in the attack, we further have Connor Metcalfe and Mohamed Toure, who will take charge of scoring goals in the World Cup matches.
Which group are Australia in?
They are in group D.
Who is their first World Cup opponent?
Turkey.
How many times have they played Turkey?
This is their third meeting.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.