As a result, this showdown could go a long way to deciding the favourites for a top-two finish along with the USA, and therefore automatic progression to the round of 32.
Australia go into the game hoping to defy expectations and head coach Tony Popovic – formerly of Crystal Palace – has been boosted by the knowledge that he has a clean bill of health ahead of his nation’s opener.
Turkey, meanwhile, will give up plenty of World Cup experience given this is the first tournament they have qualified for in 24 years – when they finished third after losing to eventual…
To provide well-rounded coverage and a breadth of insight across various events, we rely on contributions from several staff writers, each bringing their own area of expertise to our publication.





