Carl Veart, head coach of Adelaide United, is optimistic about the future of Australian football following the Subway Young Socceroos’ impressive run to the AFC Under-20 Asian Cup Final.
This Saturday evening, Australia will face off against Saudi Arabia in the final, marking the Young Socceroos’ first appearance in the youth tournament’s championship match since 2010.
Veart’s side has contributed four players to the current Young Socceroos squad. However, as they head to New Zealand this weekend for a clash with Auckland FC in the Isuzu UTE A-League, they will do so without these promising talents: Fabian Talladira, Jonny Yull, Panagiotis Kikianis, and Luka Jovanovic, who are all focused on securing Asian Cup glory.
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Australia advanced to the final after defeating Japan 2-0 in the semi-finals. By reaching the final of the U20 competition, Trevor Morgan’s team has also guaranteed qualification for the FIFA Under-20 World Cup, which is set to kick off in September-October 2025. This marks the first time since 2013 that a Young Socceroos squad has secured a place at the World Cup.
Upon arriving in Auckland for the significant Isuzu UTE A-League fixture against Auckland, Veart joined Black Knights head coach Steve Corica for a combined press conference. During the event, he was queried about the Young Socceroos’ remarkable journey so far and whether he would be watching the final in Shenzhen.
“Absolutely, we’ll be tuning in,” Veart replied.
“It’s fantastic to see young Australian talent shining. It’s been some time since we’ve had a successful underage national team, and their achievements are vital for the future of the Socceroos.”
“I recognise that Australian football has faced challenges recently due to inconsistent performances, so it’s heartening to witness a team that is thriving and promising young players making their mark.”
The Young Socceroos have yet to clinch the Under-20 Asian Cup title, their closest attempt being in 2010 when they finished as runners-up against North Korea.
Of the 23 members in the Young Socceroos squad, 17 are currently plying their trade in the A-Leagues, with all 23 having spent time with an A-Leagues club at some point.
MEET THE TEAM: The emerging talents leading the charge to break Australia’s 12-year World Cup drought as they pursue glory in Asia
How to watch the Under-20 Asian Cup Final
Young Socceroos vs Saudi Arabia
Date: Saturday, March 1, 2025
Venue: Baoan Sports Centre Stadium – Shenzhen, China
Kick-off: 10.30pm (AEDT)
Broadcast: LIVE and FREE on 10 BOLD
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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