Popovic signs new deal as Socceroos brace for Turkiye

Popovic locked in until 2027

Tony Popovic has signed a contract extension with the Socceroos, keeping him at the helm through to the AFC Asian Cup 2027. The deal was confirmed on the eve of Australia's World Cup opener, a massive show of faith from Football Australia.

"Securing Tony's contract extension on the eve of the World Cup is a fantastic outcome," said FA executive Martin Kugeler. "Tony is a world-class coach, and he has proven his ability to deliver results while developing talent at the same time." (2) (4) (7)

Stability at the top, right when you want it.

Turkiye next: your World Cup starts Sunday

Australia's Group D campaign kicks off against Turkiye at BC Place in Vancouver, with the match falling overnight from Saturday into Sunday European time. Tony Popovic's squad will face a talented Turkish side featuring Arda Güler, Hakan Calhanoglu, and Kenan Yildiz. Maty Ryan is expected to start between the posts, with Jackson Irvine likely to captain the side. (1) (5) (6)

No scoreline to report yet, the ball gets rolling soon.

Paraguay looming: Group D's wildcard

Paraguay enter Group D as the team no one is keen to draw. Christian Pérez, writing in the Guardian, describes a reborn Paraguay side that has rebuilt with grit and structure, and could cause real problems for Australia, the USA, and Turkiye alike. (3)

Worth keeping an eye on. Your group is not just about Sunday's opener.