Powell targets France scalp to establish Joeys as world-beaters

Izaack Powell insists the Joeys are ready to prove a point to the world when Australia come up against France in the FIFA U-17 World Cup Round of 16.

Trevor Morgan’s side face Les Tricolores at Estádio da Serrinha on Thursday, 7 November at 9am AEDT, bidding for their first Quarter Final appearance in 18 years.

The Joeys’ results have gradually improved throughout the global youth football showcase but their biggest test yet awaits in Goiânia, Brazil.

After a 2-1 opening game loss to Ecuador, Australia fought back to draw 2-2 with Hungary before downing five-time champions Nigeria, 2-1, to book their place in the knockout rounds.

Powell believes Australia are capable of competing with any team on the planet but he admits the rest of the world may still need to take notice.

“We have a lot to prove to everyone else,” said Powell. 

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“We know what we can do and that we can match with the best.

“I feel like [others] might not see us as one of the more technical sides but we have a lot of belief in ourselves.

“Already we’ve proven we can do it against some top sides such as Hungary and Nigeria.” 

“If we can carry that forward we can show everyone what we’re capable of.”

Jean-Claude Giuntini’s side did not drop a point in Group C, racking up wins against Chile, 2-0, Korea Republic, 3-1, and Haiti 2-0.

The challenge of facing a side made up of players from the likes of European giants Paris Saint-Germain, Monaco, Inter Milan and Juventus is a factor motivating Brisbane Roar full-back Powell.

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“I’m excited, everyone knows how well they can play so it’ll be a good test for us to match against some of the better teams in the world and show what we can do ourselves,” Powell added.

“We’re going out there for one reason and that’s to win, so hopefully we can do that.

“We’re really excited to compete against some of the bigger name players on their side.

“They have got a lot of creativity up front so it’ll be good to play against them.

“When you come against a good winger you know you want to come out on top and win every battle against them so I can’t wait.”

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