With the first two matches of the Bert van Marwijk era now completed, the Caltex Socceroos will next reassemble in May as they ramp up preparations for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
From May 19, van Marwijk’s preliminary squad for Russia will arrive in the coastal city of Antalya in Turkey for an intensive pre-camp.
It will give the boss crucial time together with the squad to fine-tune their game and tactics ahead of their first game at the tournament against France on June 16.
The Caltex Socceroos will remain in Turkey until June 7 before arriving at their base camp in Russia in Kazan four days later.
As part of the team’s preparations they’ll also play two friendly games in Europe in early June.
The first of those matches will take place on Saturday, June 2 (AEST) against the Czech Republic at the St. Polten NV Arena close to Vienna in Australia.
Eight days later, they’ll then take on Hungary on Sunday, June 10 (AEST) at the Groupama Arena.
Opponent watch: Czech Republic and Hungary
Caltex Socceroos record against Czech Republic and Hungary
And in a treat for Caltex Socceroos fans in Russia, a day after arriving in the country the squad will host a free open training session at the Stadium Trudovye Rezervy.
Up to 500 tickets for the training session will be reserved for Australian supporters already in Russia, while 4,500 seats at the venue will be reserved for Kazan locals to experience the thrill of the FIFA World Cup™ in their city.
Caltex Socceroos v Czech Republic
Date: Friday, 1 June 2018 (local time), Saturday June 2 (AEST)
Venue: St Polten NV Arena, St. Polten, Austria
Kick-off: TBC
Broadcast: Live in Australia on FOX SPORTS and Network Ten
Hungary v Caltex Socceroos
Date: Saturday, 9 June 2018 (local time), Sunday June 10 (AEST)
Venue: Groupama Arena, Budapest, Hungary
Kick-off: TBC
Broadcast: Live in Australia on FOX SPORTS and Network Ten
