After an impressive 2-0 win to start their World Cup campaign, it was difficult to find fault with any of the Socceroos players.
Here’s how we rated Australia’s men in yellow (and one in black).
Socceroos (formation 5-4-1)
18. Patrick Beach (goalkeeper)
It was a shock call to start Beach ahead of Maty Ryan, but the young Melbourne City stopper held his own. Dived full stretch to deny Abdulkerim a goal-of-the-tournament contender. Repeatedly denied Guler’s low, bouncing free kicks. Proved his coach right, starred under the bright lights. 9/10
4. Jacob Italiano (right wing-back)
The Turkish attack was almost permanently based on his wing and he stood up to everything they had to offer. Juventus star Yildiz asked big questions but couldn’t break him down. 9/10
3. Alessandro Circati (centre-back)
All those Serie A minutes have hardened Circati. His diving block stopped a goal-bound shot late in the first half. Covered every inch of the defensive box. 9/10
19. Harry Souttar (captain, centre-back)
Rock solid in the centre of defence. Looked like he had played all season, even though injuries meant he had just two late games to prepare for this moment. Held the defence together. Wasn’t used properly from set pieces, but when the corners improve, he will be ready to strike. 9/10
21. Cameron Burgess (centre-back)
Played like the world-class defender he is. Constantly filled gaps, blocked shots and his chemistry with Souttar and Circati stood out. 9/10
5. Jordan Bos (left wing-back)
Was starved of attacking chances but ran and defended as needed. Shot over the bar in the first half and appeared to battle to keep his dribble at times, but showed his class in moments. Was solid but can be even better. 8/10
13. Aiden O’Neill (midfield)
Defended in front of the big three and offered smart passing when the situation allowed, trying to keep possession when able. Played with poise beyond his years, frustrating Guler and the Turkish attack. 8/10
24. Paul Okon-Engstler (midfield)
Another bolter but was composed and, at times, classy, just as he has been with Sydney FC. His pass released Irankunda for the first goal. Repeatedly disrupted Turkish passes in the second half. He could be something special in this tournament. 8/10
8. Connor Metcalfe (midfield)
Metcalfe’s passing and defensive play were immense, and his strike from outside the box was a fitting reward and showcase of his attacking talents. His corners were too high, and can be improved next game. He will take so much confidence from this match. 8/10
17. Nestory Irankunda (midfield)
A performance that the world will notice. He pounced when released in space, scoring the opener on 27 minutes and paying homage to Tim Cahill by boxing the corner flag. Class goal, class celebration. Had a second shot saved and was subbed off on the hour. Imagine what he could do with another chance or two! 9/10
9. Mohamed Toure (striker)
Worked himself to exhaustion, with his pace making the Turkish defence scramble. Was millimetres from toeing in a second goal in the first half. He will become more dangerous as he plays more minutes at this level. 8/10
Substitutes
23. Nishan Velupillay (midfield)
Replaced Irankunda on the hour on the right side. Took time to pick up the tempo but played his role and will learn from this appearance to be sharper next time. 6/10
6. Jason Geria (right wing-back)
Replaced Italiano. Took on the toughest task on the pitch and stood tall, as expected. 6.5/10
26. Tete Yengi (striker)
Replaced Toure. Played like the powerful man he is and won some battles without having a true chance to score. 6.5/10
16. Aziz Behich (left wing-back)
Replaced Bos late. Proud moment for an Aussie of Turkish background. Was fast, decisive and dependable. 6.5/10
22. Jackson Irvine (midfield)
Replaced Okon-Engstler late. He would have been hurting to start on the bench but battled hard when introduced and will be ready for a bigger role when needed. 6.5/10
