Australia Starts Patrick Beach in Goal and Paul Okon-Engstler in Midfield Against Türkiye

Tony Popovic selected 22-year-old Patrick Beach in goal and Paul Okon-Engstler in midfield for Australia's World Cup match against Türkiye, leaving captain Mat Ryan and vice-captain Jackson Irvine on the bench. Popovic stated before kick-off that the decision was straightforward. "I just wanted to play Patrick (Beach).

The decision was to play Patrick," he told SBS. Beach made a save from Arda Güler in the lead-up to Australia's first goal. He then distributed the ball to Okon-Engstler, whose pass found Nestory Irankunda.

Irankunda scored to give Australia the lead. Beach produced another notable save minutes later by tipping a shot onto the upright. He finished the match with eight saves. Cameron Burgess started in Australia's back three in place of Lucas Herrington.

Herrington had started against Mexico and Switzerland in earlier matches and has drawn interest from Barcelona. Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati had appeared positioned for back-three roles before the Türkiye match. Burgess held his place through the game.

Australia's next World Cup match is against the USA and offers the chance to qualify for the round of 32.