We're at our best when striving towards a singular goal says Jordan Courtney-Perkins

Lewis Wiseman 1713080557,1713083410

The Subway Olyroos are all set to kick off their U23 Asian Cup campaign on Monday, April 15.

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The group has been working hard in training to prepare for their match against Jordan, and as Jordan Courtney-Perkins explained, the squad cohesion is at an all time high.

He said: “It's definitely a close culture and I think that's something that we've been working to build over the last 12 months.

“We've built it up, and it makes things a lot easier when you're out there fighting with each other to win games.”

And winning games is what they have set out as a group, to achieve.

They want to qualify for the Paris Olympics through this competition, but more than that, they want to be crowned Asian Cup champions.

“We've come here and the top three automatically qualify for the Olympics, but I think all the boys, and the coaching staff and even everyone back home, know that we're a strong team,” Courtney-Perkins said.

“We're not here just to qualify for the Olympics, but we're here to win the tournament, and I think we have the quality to do so.”

The 21-year-old Sydney FC defender said the tournament is also a great chance for players to show their ability to the world.

“For me, it's all about the team and I think if we succeed, then I succeed as well and I think a lot of the boys have the same sort of mindset,” he said.

“Of course, it's a good opportunity for players to showcase their personal ability, but I think we all look better when we're playing well as a team and when we're striving towards a singular goal.”

On a personal note, Courtney-Perkins said representing Australia has been a lifelong dream of his.

“Any boy growing up playing football wants to play for Australia and wants to wear the green and gold,” he said.

“It's a privilege anytime you get to wear the shirt and every time you go out there, you're not just playing for yourself, you're playing for the entire country.

“It's a massive responsibility and a great honour.”

For now though, with the first match fast approaching, Courtney-Perkins made clear that the team are ready for the challenge.

He said: “Everyone knows the structures and we've all been doing it for a long time now, the last couple of days have been to polish things up, and then we get out there Monday we will be ready.”

 

AFC U-23 ASIAN CUP QATAR 2024™ FINALS – GROUP A

Australia v Jordan
Monday, 15 April 2024
Kick-off: 4pm (local) / 11pm AEST
Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium, Doha

Indonesia v Australia
Thursday, 18 April 2024
Kick-off: 4pm (local) / 11pm AEST
Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium, Doha

Qatar v Australia
Sunday, 21 April 2024
Kick-off: 6:30pm (local) / 1:30am AEST (Monday, 22 April)
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium, Doha