Subway Young Socceroos Head Coach, Trevor Morgan, and Captain, Joshua Rawlins, admits the team is raring to go ahead of its AFC U-20 Asian Cup 2023 quarter final clash against hosts Uzbekistan on Sunday morning (AEDT).
The Subway Young Socceroos head into the elimination clash brimming with confidence following its record-breaking 9-1 Group B win over Qatar.
Morgan's side know a win over the host nation will not only see them progress to the semi-finals, but also punch its ticket to the FIFA U-20 World Cup™, something the Young Socceroos have not achieved in ten years.
A sell-out crowd of around 34,000 is expected at the Milliy Stadium with the pair dismissing suggestions the hostile atmosphere will be a disadvantage.
READ MORE: How to watch Australia at the AFC U-20 Asian Cup Uzbekistan 2023™
It will be a fascinating battle with the Aussies having so far scored the most goals in the tournament against a White Wolves team that is yet concede after collecting seven points to top Group A.
Speaking to reporters at the official pre-match press conference, Morgan revealed his squad are eagerly awaiting the crucial game.
"We've had excellent preparation," the boss said.
"Obviously, the way the schedule works with the extra day has been great for us and to be honest, we wish we played today because we just can't wait for the match."
While Morgan is cognisant no Australia U-20 side has qualified for the World Cup since 2013, the group is motivated to write their own story and not worry about what transpired in the past.
"Maybe we talked about this group of players it's their destiny that is in their hands now and for sure people always remark on history," he said.
"What's most important for us is that these boys really want to challenge themselves against the best players and progressing to a World Cup makes that opportunity possible.
"So just a great opportunity for us and one we're firmly focused on."
Rawlins, who played in Uzbekistan last year with the Subway Olyroos at the AFC U-23 Asian Cup, is hoping his team can accomplish their primary objective.
"I think the group are aware that we have a opportunity to do something special after 10 years since the last world cup," Rawlins claimed.
"So that is a big goal for us as a playing group and I think the game tomorrow will show what that means to us."
The 18-year-old, who plies his trade with Jong Utrecht, the reserve team of Dutch Eredivisie outfit FC Utrecht following a move from Perth Glory, says the past tournament experience certainly helps but believes the entire squad consists of leaders.
"I think coming here last year and participating in this tournament, it gives me expectation to lead the group of boys, but I don't think I have to do that alone," he continued.
"I think the group of boys are able to do that by themselves and on the pitch, we've seen in the group stage.
"They handled the occasion and in the quarter final against Uzbekistan is the biggest occasion I think as a host nation, and we'll look to do the same."
Match details
Tournament: AFC Asian Cup Uzbekistan 2023 - Quarter Final
Date: Sunday, 12 March
Venue: Milliy Stadium, Tashkent
Kick-off: 1:00am AEDT
Broadcast: Live and Free on 10 Play