Australia’s teenage sensation Nestory Irankunda has been recalled to the Socceroos squad for the first time in nearly a year as head coach Tony Popovic named his 25-man team for the upcoming “Soccer Ashes” series against New Zealand.
The 19-year-old winger, who recently joined Watford in the English Championship after leaving Bayern Munich, returns to international duty alongside seven uncapped players in Popovic’s youthful squad.
Popovic on Irankunda’s Return
Popovic praised Irankunda’s growth since his move to Europe, stating:
“He’s had a year in Europe which is a great experience for a young player. We know he has talent, and we hope to see him feature in multiple World Cups to come.”
Irankunda made his Socceroos debut under former coach Graham Arnold but was previously overlooked in recent squads.
New Faces in the Squad
Among the debutants are:
- Noah Botic (Austria Vienna)
- Nicolas Milanovic (Aberdeen)
- Adrian Segecic (Portsmouth)
- Anthony Kalik (Hajduk Split)
- Max Balard (Central Coast Mariners)
- Goalkeepers Tom Glover and Paul Izzo
Key Omissions
Veteran goalkeeper Mat Ryan, who earned his 100th cap in June, misses out due to lack of game time since leaving French club Lens. Team captain Jackson Irvine is also absent as he recovers from foot surgery.
Australia Squad List
Goalkeepers: Joe Gauci, Tom Glover, Paul Izzo
Defenders: Cameron Burgess, Alessandro Circati, Milos Degenek, Fran Karacic, Hayden Matthews, Lewis Miller, Kye Rowles, Jordan Bos
Midfielders: Max Balard, Ajdin Hrustic, Anthony Kalik, Connor Metcalfe, Aiden O’Neill, Adrian Segecic, Ryan Teague, Patrick Yazbek
Forwards: Noah Botic, Martin Boyle, Nestory Irankunda, Nicolas Milanovic, Samuel Silvera, Mohamed Toure
Match Details
- First Leg: September 5, Canberra
- Second Leg: September 9, Auckland
The “Soccer Ashes,” inspired by the famous cricket rivalry between Australia and England, will see the Socceroos test a fresh generation of talent against New Zealand.
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