Overview
- Coach Tony Popovic has picked Mohamed Touré and Nestory Irankunda as his primary attacking threats for Australia’s Group C opener against Turkey on Saturday.
- Touré, 22, earned a starting role after a hot spell at Norwich City that produced nine goals in 11 appearances and has secured first‑choice striker duties despite having only around 9–10 senior caps.
- Irankunda, 20, plays for Watford after a high‑profile Bayern Munich move that did not work out and has become a fan favourite for his energy and goal celebrations in roughly 14–15 appearances for Australia.
- Awer Mabil, recalled after finding form for Castellón in Spain, will act as an experienced mentor to the younger forwards at his second World Cup.
- The squad includes six players of African heritage, four of whom came through Adelaide’s system, and their visibility at the tournament is shaping domestic conversations about migration, integration and the national game.