'That's a Wrap!' is back for another a month as we review all things involving Australia's men's senior and junior national teams and players for October thanks to our Official Partner, Subway.
Australia give strong account at Wembley
The Subway Socceroos' desire to face elite opposition in 2023 continued with a first encounter in over seven years against England. The Aussies acquitted themselves well despite a 1-0 loss and were left disappointed not to have come away with more in their maiden appearance at the iconic Wembley Stadium. Perhaps indicative of the growth and maturity of this side and again proof they are more than capable of competing against the game's top footballing nations.
It was Ollie Watkins' 57th minute finish which proved decisive as he pounced on a ball back across the face of goal as the Aussies' rearguard was breached after a momentary lapse from a recycled set piece. Indeed, there were plenty of bright spots, not least the tactical game plan implemented by Graham Arnold with Australia's high-pressing approach producing ample opportunities. Connor Metcalfe was also sensational in arguably his best performance for his country, as the 23-year-old St. Pauli midfielder demonstrated his quality in possession and was unlucky not to have scored.
Comfortable win over New Zealand
Determined to back up their performance against the Three Lions, Australia dictated terms against the All Whites on its way to a convincing 2-0 victory while lifting the Soccer Ashes trophy. Arnold made five changes from the England game and it did not impact the team's rhythm and fluency. There was also a return for Massimo Luongo, who made his first appearance for the national team in over four years.
It was the first time since 1954 the match between the trans-Tasman rivals was contested for the Soccer Ashes after the trophy was rediscovered this year having vanished for almost 70 years. Maty Ryan lifted the replica piece of silverware as the win also snapped a four-match winless run.
Three more debutants
The October window also saw three newly capped Subway Socceroos in Lewis Miller (cap #635), Mohamed Toure (cap #636) and Alessandro Circati (cap #637).
Tweet: https://twitter.com/Socceroos/status/1713421105590067659
Miller and Toure were introduced as second-half substitutes against England while Circati started and played the full 90 minutes against the Kiwis, delivering a flawless performance alongside Harry Souttar.
Tweet: https://twitter.com/Socceroos/status/1714790042537951430
Guus and Ange visit camp
One of the highlights from the London camp was when two former legendary Subway Socceroos coaches dropped by lunch to say hello to Graham Arnold and the team ahead of the clash at Wembley. Guus Hiddink and Ange Postecoglou, currently in charge of Tottenham Hotspur, spoke eloquently as the pair provided a source of inspiration and motivation.
Aussies continue to make waves abroad
Several Aussies have continued their impressive starts with their clubs. Jackson Irvine has been central to St Pauli's promotion push as they remain the only unbeaten team left in the 2. Bundesliga and currently occupy top spot. The midfielder scored his first of the campaign against Paderborn.
Tweet: https://twitter.com/Socceroos/status/1715857998915207526
Connor Metcalfe has also been impressive for the Hamburg-based club and picked up his second assist last weekend.
Maty Ryan leads the top five leagues in clean sheets this season with eight in all competitions as AZ Alkmaar are second in the Eredivisie behind PSV Eindhoven.
Sam Silvera opened his account in the EFL Championship in late October which ultimately proved the winner in a 2-1 win over Norwich.
Tweet: https://twitter.com/Socceroos/status/1716934602273763648
As always follow our social channels and head to our website to stay up to date with the latest Aussies Abroad news.
Subway Young Socceroos impress in Marbella
The Subway Young Socceroos jetted off to the south coast of Spain to take part in the Marbella Week of Football. Trevor Morgan's highly-talented squad face France, the Netherlands and Denmark, drawing all three matches but prevailing in all three penalty shootouts. Thomas Waddingham and Bailey Brandtman scored two goals in the friendly tournament.
Tweet: https://twitter.com/FootballAUS/status/1714402228470173716
