Australia superpower v USA pentagon: how each team can win their World Cup clash

The Socceroos and United States both made a fast start to their campaign – here is what the Group D rivals must do to maintain momentum in Seattle Back Nestory Irankunda: the 20-year-old was expected to be an impact player at this World Cup, coming on as a substitute to affect matches against tiring opposition. A player of the match performance when starting against Turkey showed how Irankunda has become one of the Socceroos’ most important players. While still learning his wing-craft, his speed and determination without the ball are vital in a Socceroos outfit seemingly happy to give their opponents’ possession, and his ability to make the most of transition and direct opportunities – as seen for his opening goal against Turkey – can be a superpower. Continue reading...

Alexander Abnos and Jack Snape · Wed, Jun 17, 2026, 11:00 PM
US news | The Guardian

The Socceroos and United States both made a fast start to their campaign – here is what the Group D rivals must do to maintain momentum in Seattle

Back Nestory Irankunda: the 20-year-old was expected to be an impact player at this World Cup, coming on as a substitute to affect matches against tiring opposition. A player of the match performance when starting against Turkey showed how Irankunda has become one of the Socceroos’ most important players. While still learning his wing-craft, his speed and determination without the ball are vital in a Socceroos outfit seemingly happy to give their opponents’ possession, and his ability to make the most of transition and direct opportunities – as seen for his opening goal against Turkey – can be a superpower.

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