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Australia have become familiar faces on the World Cup stage, qualifying for a sixth consecutive tournament after also reaching the Round of 16 in Qatar 2022 — matching their best-ever result. While few expect the Socceroos to challenge for the title, progressing from a group that includes the USA and Paraguay will be viewed as a realistic objective.

Preparation for the tournament has been somewhat uneven. Australia suffered a narrow 1-0 loss to Mexico before earning a 1-1 draw against Switzerland in their final warm-up fixtures. Despite mixed results, the squad remains battle-tested and experienced at major tournaments.

Interestingly, Australia’s previous meetings with Turkey date back more than two decades. The two sides met in friendlies in May 2004, with Turkey coming out on top both times — winning 3-1 and 1-0.

Turkey, meanwhile, return to the World Cup for the first time since their memorable 2002 campaign, when they shocked many by reaching the semi-finals and eventually securing third place. This will be only the Crescent-Stars’ third appearance at the finals, but expectations are growing around a talented generation.

After reaching the Euro 2024 quarter-finals, Vincenzo Montella’s men arrive in strong form, carrying an eight-match unbeaten streak into the tournament. Turkey have won seven of their last eight matches, including convincing warm-up victories over North Macedonia (4-0) and Venezuela (2-1).

Their place at the World Cup was sealed with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Kosovo in the European playoff final, and confidence inside the camp is high. Following this clash, Turkey will continue their group-stage campaign against Paraguay on June 19 before facing hosts USA on June 25.

Australia possible starting lineup:

Ryan; Italiano, Circati, Souttar, Herrington, Bos; Metcalfe, Irvine, O'Neill, Leckie; Toure

Turkey possible starting lineup:

Cakir; Celik, Demiral, Bardakci, Elmali; Calhanoglu, Yuksek; Guler, Kokcu, Yilmaz; Gul

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