70 days to go: Doug Utjesenovic's FIFA World Cup story

As part of our countdown to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, we profile every Australian player who's been to a World Cup.

Today we continue the countdown with Doug Utjesenovic, one of Australia's defenders at the 1974 World Cup.

FIFA World Cup: Countdown for the Caltex Socceroos

Cap number: 233

World Cups played at: 1974

Position: Defender

Age at World Cup: 27

Clubs played for: OFK Belgrade, Footscray JUST, Sydney St George

Best World Cup moment

Utjesenovic played in all three matches for the Socceroos at their first-ever World Cup in 1974.

Was a part of the side that drew 0-0 with Chile in their final fixture in West Germany, claiming the Socceroos’ first ever World Cup point. 

Career highlight

Born in Yugoslavia in 1946, Utjesenovic went on to make an impressive 61 appearances for the Socceroos, scoring two goals.

His career highlight would undoubtedly be playing every game at the 1974 World Cup, a feat which would have been impossible had he not moved to Australia at age 23.

Post-playing career

Utjesenovic moved into coaching post his playing career and managed the likes of APIA Leichhardt, Parramatta Eagles and Bonnyrigg White Eagles.

He was inducted into the FFA Hall of Fame in 2000.

Did you know?

He often played as a sweeper in club football but was deployed as a right fullback for the Socceroos.

He suffered an injury on tour in 1976 which effectively ended his international career.

*Photographs from the Les Shorrock, Laurie Schwab and Anton Cermak collections are used with permission from Deakin University Library, Eileen Shorrock and Mrs Jana Cermak.