Schwarzer backs 'written off' Socceroos to surprise US at World Cup
Former Socceroos captain Mark Schwarzer expressed confidence that Australia can overcome underestimation and defeat the United States at the upcoming FIFA World Cup, responding to American pundit Mike Grella's dismissive comments. Schwarzer noted that the Socceroos have historically been overlooked despite qualifying for six consecutive World Cups and reaching the knockout stages twice. He argued that being underestimated often motivates the Australian team to perform at their best.
Mark Schwarzer, Australia's most capped player, defended the Socceroos' chances against the United States following controversial comments by US football pundit Mike Grella, who called Australia a "lay-up" for the American team. Schwarzer said the Socceroos prefer to let their on-field performance speak for itself and are accustomed to being written off by international media. He emphasized that underestimation has historically served as motivation for Australia's best performances, noting the team has qualified for six consecutive World Cups and reached the knockout stages twice. Australia is ranked 27th in FIFA world rankings, below the US (17th) and Türkiye (22nd) in their Group D. The article also addresses the selection of 22-year-old Cristian Volpato, who switched his international allegiance from Italy to Australia, with Schwarzer defending the young player against criticism for his previous decision to decline the 2022 World Cup squad.
What different sources said
- ABC AustraliaCenter
Schwarzer confident 'written off' Socceroos can stun American doubters
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