Group D clash: Australia vs Turkey — Who holds the edge?
KATHMANDU: Australia, now a regular presence in the FIFA World Cup with five straight appearances, head into the 2026 edition aiming to build on their historic run to the Round of 16 in 2022 — their best-ever performance on football’s biggest stage.
However, the road in the United States promises to be far tougher than Qatar.
Australia’s Group features strong opponents including Turkey, the United States, and Paraguay, making progression far from straightforward.
Under head coach Tony Popovic, Australia have shown mixed but competitive form in their build-up.
They narrowly lost 1–0 to Mexico on May 31 before holding Switzerland to a 1–1 draw just six days later, showing resilience against top-quality opposition.
The Socceroos face a demanding schedule, starting with Turkey, followed by a crucial clash against the United States on June 19 and Paraguay on June 25.
Historically, Australia and Turkey have met only twice — both in friendly matches back in May 2004, with Australia winning on both occasions.
Turkey, meanwhile, arrive at the World Cup for their third appearance, returning to the global stage for the first time since 2002. That year remains legendary in Turkish football history, as they stunned the world by reaching the semifinals and finishing third.
Recent form suggests they are once again a dangerous force. Turkey went unbeaten in their last eight matches, winning seven, including strong warm-up victories over North Macedonia (4–0) and Venezuela (2–1). They secured their World Cup place by defeating Kosovo 1–0 in the European playoffs.
Under coach Vincenzo Montella, Turkey have developed momentum heading into the tournament, with their last group fixtures set against Paraguay on June 19 and the United States on June 25.
Australia, however, also enter with key players in form and fully fit. Veteran goalkeeper Mathew Ryan, midfield engine Jackson Irvine, and experienced forward Mathew Leckie are expected to play pivotal roles.
Leckie, who has contributed both goals and assists across previous World Cup appearances, brings valuable experience with 10 World Cup matches to his name.
A major attacking hope lies with striker Mohamed Touré, who impressed at club level with 10 goals in 12 matches during the 2025/26 season and has already netted twice in 10 international appearances.
For Turkey, attention will be on their star attacking midfielder from Real Madrid, widely regarded as one of the tournament’s standout talents, alongside captain and midfield leader Hakan Çalhanoğlu, both of whom are central to Turkey’s creative and tactical strength.
