Socceroos duo lock down club future in Germany ahead of World Cup qualifiers
Ross Papadakis 
Jackson Irvine warming up prior to the Socceroos vs Palestine in Perth (June 2024). Photo: Provided by Aleksandar Jason/Subway Socceroos
With an international window just around the corner, competition for spots in Graham Arnold’s Socceroos squad to begin the third phase of World Cup qualification is heating up, as our Aussies abroad continue to make in impact on the biggest leagues in the world.
Bundesliga debutants
Jackson Irvine and Connor Metcalfe made their highly anticipated Bundesliga debuts for St. Pauli on the opening weekend of the season. Both players have signed contract extensions with the club earlier this week, securing their future at the German club.
FC St Pauli returned back to the top-flight of German football for the first time since the 2010/11 season, however despite both Irvine and Metcalfe’s strong performances, St. Pauli fell to a 2-0 defeat against 1. FC Heidenheim.
Circati shines in Parma upset
In Italy, Alessandro Circati was instrumental for Parma, as they upset Serie A giants AC Milan. The young defender recorded two interceptions and six clearances during the match, helping Parma maintain their unbeaten record in their return to the top tier of Italian football.
His performance was a testament to his growing maturity and talent, and is sure to fill Socceroos fans with optimism, going into the upcoming international window.
Irankunda’s brace for Bayern II
Across the border in Germany, Nestory Irankunda stole the show in Bayern Munich II’s Regionalliga match against Wurzburger Kickers. The promising young talent scored twice and provided an assist, earning the man-of-the-match award for his outstanding performance. His contributions were instrumental in their 4-1 victory.
Irankunda’s goal-scoring prowess and creativity were on full display throughout the match. His ability to find space in the opposition’s defence and finish his chances with composure was a key factor.
Goodwin returns with goal-scoring form
Craig Goodwin made a triumphant return to competitive football in the Saudi Pro League, scoring twice and assisting one goal in Al-Wehda’s 3-3 draw with Al Riyadh on Friday.
The match showcased Goodwin’s signature style, as his two goals were expertly placed low-driven shots that found the net at either post.
Out for the last window through injury, it will be interesting to see if Goodwin slots straight back into Arnold’s starting XI.
Arnold’s creative midfield choices
With Riley McGree absent from Middlesbrough’s last three games with what was described as a knock, and Ajdin Hrustic not playing competitive football since June, Graham Arnold may need to look elsewhere to fill our creative midfielder-sized hole for the upcoming international window.
Aiden O’Neill has been a standout performer for his Belgian club, Standard Liège, this season. The versatile midfielder, temporarily donning the captain’s armband, has played every minute of the league campaign, contributing to four clean sheets.
Alex Robertson’s versatility has been a valuable asset for Cardiff City, starting two of their four opening games in the Championship.
He’s featured as both a deep-lying midfielder and in a more progressive attacking role, showcasing his ball-playing ability and dictating the tempo of the game, perhaps a suitable replacement for the injured McGree.
After missing the back end of last season to injury, and many international windows, September may be the opportunity for Robertson to return to the fold.
Scottish roundup: Mixed emotions
Both Martin Boyle and Lewis Miller played in Hibernian’s 2-2 draw against Dundee FC and in true Martin Boyle fashion, a beautiful free kick was sent straight into the top right corner.
Kye Rowles and Cameron Devlin’s Hearts faced a disappointing 3-1 defeat against Motherwell in their Scottish Premiership clash. Despite the presence of the Australian duo, Hearts couldn’t overcome their opponents, who were missing the injured Apostolos Stamatelopoulos and Johnny Koutroumbis.
On the other side of the Scottish Premiership, Johnny Warren Medallist Josh Nisbet made his long-awaited European debut for Ross County. Nisbet was introduced in the 70th minute of their match against Rangers, but unfortunately, couldn’t prevent a heavy 6-0 loss.
Muscat’s Shanghai Port advances in FA Cup
Kevin Muscat was awarded Manager of the Month for the third straight occasion as his Shanghai Port advanced to the semi-finals of the Chinese FA Cup with a comfortable 3-0 win over Tianjin Jinmen Tigers. The team now faces a city derby against Shanghai Shenhua for a place in the final, aiming to lift the cup for the first time in their history.
In the league, Muscat’s Port sits two points clear of Shanghai Shenhua with six games left to play, while also preparing for their upcoming AFC Champions League Elite campaign.
Tottenham’s triumphs
After a disappointing opening-day draw against Leicester City, Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham bounced back with a resounding 4-0 victory over Everton. The result showcased the team’s attacking prowess and provided a positive start to their 2024/25 Premier League campaign.