Tony Popovic praised his side after a 2-0 triumph over Türkiye, a result that lifted Australia level on Group D with three points. The victory came despite absorbing a record‑tying 30 shots, the most faced by a World Cup winner since Portugal’s 2006 win. Goals from Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe capped a defensive masterclass that stunned the host nation.

The win featured the youngest Socceroos ever fielded at a World Cup, with captain Mathew Ryan and vice‑captain Jackson Irvine dropped for Patrick Beach and Paul Okon Jr. Only Harry Souttar brought prior tournament experience, wearing the armband and anchoring the back line. Popovic said the youthful squad showed “growth” in both phases of play, a sign that his bold selection gamble paid off.

Recovering physically and emotionally now tops Popovic’s agenda ahead of Friday’s showdown with the United States in Seattle. He stressed rapid travel back to the Bay Area base camp to restore familiar routines and monitor injuries, such as Mohamed Touré’s calf cramp. The coach warned the boys must enjoy the moment but stay focused, insisting a solid performance against the U.S. is the minimum required to stay alive.