The Aussie Game Podcast

The new A-League Men’s season is here! We run through all 12 clubs, their off-season changes, biggest questions and chances of success, before revealing our predicted ladder and season awards.

Adelaide United

After a strong season and qualification for Asia, Adelaide must replace the goals and creativity of Luka Jovanovic and Yaya Dukuly while balancing domestic and continental football. Can they find enough firepower?

Auckland FC

The defending champions have a new manager in Pedro Moreira and significant departures to overcome. Can Sam Cosgrove and Francis De Vries lead another title challenge?

Brisbane Roar

After a promising start turned into a disappointing season, Brisbane face another rebuild. Can they improve their goal output and find consistency?

Central Coast Mariners

New owners, a new manager and new players bring plenty of change. Can John Hutchinson guide an inexperienced squad into the top six?

Macarthur FC

One of the hardest teams to predict after major squad changes and a new manager. Replacing Luke Brattan and Anthony Caceres will be crucial.

Melbourne City

Awer Mabil and Mads Marcondes add quality, but can City integrate their new signings and return to premiership contention?

Melbourne Victory

A new manager brings fresh possibilities, but losing Juan Mata and Nikos Vergos leaves questions in attack. Can the younger players step up?

Newcastle Jets

After winning the Premiers Plate and Australia Cup, Newcastle face the challenge of replacing six regular starters while competing in Asia. Can Mark Milligan repeat last season's success?

Perth Glory

Adam Griffiths begins his first full season in charge after significant player turnover. Will Calem Nieuwenhof and emerging midfielder Will Freney help Perth improve?

Sydney FC

With a strong defence and promising additions including Takahiro Sekine, Sydney look capable of challenging again. Can they replace key departures and find enough goals?

Wellington Phoenix

Conceding 48 goals cost Wellington last season, while the departures of Ifeanyi Eze and Carlo Armiento leave a hole in attack. Can they fix their defence and finally beat Auckland?

Western Sydney Wanderers

After a disastrous campaign at the bottom of the ladder, the Wanderers have recruited promising new players. Can they turn things around and become one of the season's biggest improvers?

Who will rise, who will fall, and which predictions will look ridiculous by season's end? We break it all down in our 2026/27 A-League Men’s preview.

🎧 Listen on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

Follow us:

IG: @theaussiegame | FB: @theaussiegame | X: @the_aussie_game

South Melbourne have made Australian football history, defeating Melbourne Victory on penalties in a thrilling Australia Cup Final at AAMI Park. In front of a record crowd of 29,911, Sinisa Cohadzic’s side became the first NPL club to win the Australia Cup, capping off a remarkable turnaround for the historic club.

On this week’s episode, we break down the historic final, South Melbourne’s incredible journey and what the triumph could mean for the club’s future in Australian football.

We also discuss the Matildas’ 4–2 defeat to Germany, with Sam Kerr and Holly McNamara finding the net, while Ellie Carpenter and Kyra Cooney-Cross celebrate individual accolades. Plus, we cover Mary Fowler’s withdrawal from the Matildas squad, the upcoming Colombia friendly and the Junior Matildas’ preparations for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

Elsewhere, we catch up on the latest Australian football news from around the world, including standout performances, goals and injuries across the English leagues, Scotland, Europe, Asia, the MLS and beyond.

In this episode:

• Australia Cup Final: South Melbourne defeat Melbourne Victory on penalties to become the first NPL club to lift the trophy.
• South Melbourne’s remarkable revival: Sinisa Cohadzic’s journey from relegation troubles to national silverware and Australian football history.
• Matildas: Australia’s 4–2 loss to Germany, goals from Sam Kerr and Holly McNamara, and the latest squad news.
• Matildas accolades: Ellie Carpenter wins PFA Women’s Footballer of the Year, while Kyra Cooney-Cross earns Arsenal’s Player of the Month for September.
• Australian footballers abroad: The latest results, goals, assists and talking points from leagues across the globe.
• Young guns: A look at emerging Australian talent, including goals from Miguel DiPizio and Akol Akon.
• Team of the Week: Our standout performers from the latest round of action.

From South Melbourne’s historic triumph to the Matildas and Australians making their mark overseas, we cover all the biggest stories in Australian football.

Join our fantasy A-League league

🎧 Listen on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

Follow us:

IG: @theaussiegame | FB: @theaussiegame | X: @the_aussie_game

The Socceroos’ international window ends with a 4-2 defeat to Brazil, but the scoreline only tells part of the story. Australia led 2-1 at half-time through goals from Alessandro Circati and Connor Metcalfe before Brazil fought back in the second half.

We look at what the two-game Brazil series revealed about Tony Popovic’s Socceroos, including the decision to stick with an unchanged starting XI, the team’s ability to back up on a short turnaround, and what the results mean with the Asian Cup approaching.

We also discuss:

• Whether Australia should have rotated more against Brazil
• What we learned about Popovic’s approach
• The Socceroos’ likely Asian Cup XI
• The wing-back situation and the striker question
• The Olyroos’ 2-1 defeat to Korea Republic
• The Joeys winning the U16 CFA Invitational in China
• Australian players making an impact across Europe, Asia and the USA
• Martin Boyle receiving a Hibernian testimonial year
• Reports surrounding Graham Arnold’s future with Iraq
• Our Team of the Week

Reminder to share your thought on your A-League Men's club for our season preview:

• Your team
• Best player
• Top goal scorer
• Breakout star
• Bold prediction

🎧 Listen on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

Follow us:

IG: @theaussiegame | FB: @theaussiegame | Threads: @theaussiegame | BlueSky: @aussiegame.bsky.social | X: @the_aussie_game

The Socceroos produced one of their most encouraging performances in recent memory, pushing Brazil all the way in Townsville before conceding a heartbreaking late equaliser to finish 1-1.

Nestory Irankunda’s world-class free kick was the headline moment, but this was a performance built on contributions across the pitch. From a more progressive approach in possession to a growing back three and an exciting group of attacking players, the Socceroos showed clear signs of evolution under Tony Popovic.

The big question now: can Australia back it up against Brazil again in Brisbane on Tuesday?

Joe Montemurro has named the Matildas squad for the upcoming friendlies against Germany and Haiti, with three uncapped players included.

• Courtney Newbon
• Tori Tumeth
• Hana Lowry

Alanna Kennedy and Charlize Rule are unavailable through injury, while Kyra Cooney-Cross continues her return to football and will not join the squad.

The squad also includes established Matildas such as Sam Kerr, Caitlin Foord, Mary Fowler, Ellie Carpenter, Steph Catley and Emily van Egmond.

• Kyra Cooney-Cross starred for Arsenal, winning Player of the Match after creating the most chances and winning the most duels in a 1-0 Champions League win over HB Køge.
• Mary Fowler came off the bench for Manchester City in their 2-2 comeback draw with Bayern Munich.
• Four Australians featured as Charlton hosted Manchester City, with City winning 1-0. Fowler played the full match, while Emily van Egmond was forced off with a head injury.
• Kaitlyn Torpey scored and assisted in Newcastle's 4-1 win over Sheffield United.
• Ellie Carpenter created the most chances and helped Chelsea keep a clean sheet in their 1-0 Champions League win over Austria Vienna.

• Caleb Watts scored twice for Plymouth Argyle in their 5-1 win over Crystal Palace U21s in the EFL Trophy.
• Jaylan Pearman played 90 minutes for Swindon in a 2-0 loss to Newport.
• Hayden Matthews played the full match in Bradford's 2-1 win over Newcastle United U21s.
• Clayton Taylor played 90 minutes for Barnsley in their 4-3 loss to Leeds U21s, while new signing Rylan Brownlie provided an assist off the bench.
• Raphael Borges Rodrigues played the full match as Burton defeated Plymouth 1-0.

• Peter Cklamovski has Salford City unbeaten in five and up to seventh after a 4-1 win over Oldham.
• Jaeden Majekodunmi played the full match as Swindon drew 1-1 with Accrington.

• Max Balard played 90 minutes in NAC Breda's 4-2 win over Eindhoven.
• Josh Nisbet played 89 minutes in Roda JC's 2-0 win over RKC Waalwijk.
• Gianni Stensness scored as Viking won 3-0 and moved top of the Norwegian league.
• Jed Drew came off the bench to score and assist in Hartberg's 3-3 comeback draw.
• Ella Tonkin played the full match in Torreense's 2-1 Women's Europa Cup victory.
• Aivi Luik continues to feature strongly in Sweden, playing 72 minutes in a 6-0 win over Norrköping.
• Daniela Galic opened the scoring in Vittsjö's 3-1 win over Kristianstad.

• Sam Kerr scored and assisted in Gotham's 3-1 win over Chicago.
• Mackenzie Arnold conceded a late equaliser as Washington drew 1-1.
• Archie Goodwin started for Charlotte in their 1-0 loss to Chicago.
• Luka Jovanovic came off the bench for 13 minutes in San Jose's 3-1 win over Portland.
• Kye Rowles and DC United drew 3-3 with Vancouver to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Akol Akon has signed for Colorado Rapids in a club-record deal and will be loaned back to Sydney FC for the season.

Michael Cooper has named the 21-player CommBank Junior Matildas squad for the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup Morocco 2026, where Australia will compete at the tournament for the first time.

Australia vs Chile — 20 October

Spain vs Australia — 23 October

Mexico vs Australia — 26 October

The 2010-born Joeys opened their U16 CFA Invitational campaign in China with a 4-2 win over Vietnam.

Zach Harrison scored twice, with Noah Hooper also finding the net.

The Australia Cup final is building into one of the biggest games on the domestic football calendar.

There's plenty at stake:

• Asian Champions League Two implications
• The battle for Melbourne
• A-League versus the National Premier Leagues
• The push for greater recognition of domestic football
• One club chasing another major piece of silverware
• The chance for one side to return to the top of the Australian football pyramid
• The opportunity for the other to lift the Australia Cup for a third time

With the final sold out, it's about much more than just the trophy.

GK: Patrick Beach

DEF: Kaitlyn Torpey, Lucas Herrington, Alessandro Circati, Ellie Carpenter

MID: Paul Okon-Engstler, Kyra Cooney-Cross

ATT: Nestory Irankunda, Jed Drew, Caleb Watts, Sam Kerr

Coach: Peter Cklamovski

Moppa's Super Sub: Daniela Galic

🎧 Listen on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

Follow us:

IG: @theaussiegame | FB: @theaussiegame | Threads: @theaussiegame | BlueSky: @aussiegame.bsky.social | X: @the_aussie_game

Tony Popovic has finally named his 26-player Socceroos squad for the upcoming friendlies against Brazil.

The squad features 16 players retained from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, three recalls and seven potential debutants. There are plenty of familiar faces alongside exciting young talent, with Popovic continuing to give opportunities to players pushing for senior selection.

With Mat Ryan absent, there are questions around the goalkeeping situation, while several players in strong club form will be hoping to make their mark against one of world football's biggest nations.

Alessandro Circati made his European debut for Benfica at the San Siro against AC Milan, helping his side to a 2-0 win and clean sheet in a huge performance. Australian referee Jared Gillett also made his European competition debut in the match.

Daniel Arzani scored a spectacular goal on his return to Celtic Park as Ferencváros defeated Celtic 3-1, while Yaya Dukuly started against Bayer Leverkusen.

Lucas Herrington made his Premier League starting debut, becoming the second-youngest Australian to start a Premier League match after Harry Kewell. He recorded 92% passing accuracy despite his side's 2-1 defeat.

Alex Robertson continued his strong form for Cardiff City, creating the most chances and completing the most passes in a 3-1 win over Charlton.

Riley McGree featured in back-to-back 2-2 draws for Middlesbrough, while Mohamed Toure came off the bench against Manchester City in the League Cup.

Kealey Adamson impressed after coming off the bench early for QPR following a red card, helping his side fight back from 2-0 down to draw 2-2.

In the Women's Super League, Mary Fowler helped Manchester City to a 4-2 win over Liverpool, while Steph Catley started for Arsenal against Manchester United as the Gunners rescued a late 1-1 draw. Ellie Carpenter played the full match in Chelsea's 2-0 win over Birmingham.

Ryan Strain continued his excellent form for Falkirk, registering an assist in a 2-1 win over Hearts before another impressive performance against St Johnstone, where he created the most chances, completed the most passes and made the most tackles.

Daniel Bennie assisted in Dundee United's 3-0 win over St Mirren, while Josh Rawlins played the full match.

Jack Iredale and Martin Boyle featured for Hibernian, with Boyle scoring from the penalty spot.

Nestory Irankunda made his first start for Sporting CP, playing 57 minutes in a 2-2 draw.

Jacob Italiano marked his return to the Socceroos squad with a goal for Grazer AK in a 2-2 draw with Austria Vienna.

Marcus Younis continued his scoring form for Brøndby, finding the net in their cup victory.

Dylan Leonard featured for Alemannia Aachen, while Hayley Raso played the second half in Eintracht Frankfurt's 3-2 win.

In Sweden, Daniela Galic played 90 minutes for Vittsjo GIK, while Charli Grant started her fourth straight game for Malmö, with Amy Sayer and Courtney Nevin also featuring.

The Asian Champions League produced a mixed week for Australian players and coaches.

Ange Postecoglou's side suffered a 4-0 defeat away to Al Ain, while Kevin Muscat's Shanghai Port came out on top in a remarkable 6-4 thriller against Ratchaburi.

The Newcastle Jets endured a difficult night, losing 7-1 to Kashima Antlers. Pat Wood scored for the Jets from a Joe Lolley assist.

In the AFC Champions League Two, Adelaide United made an impressive start with a 3-0 win over Tai Po, with goals from Ethan Alagich, Juan Muñiz and Craig Goodwin.

Mitch Duke and Tete Yengi both scored as Machida Zelvia defeated Svay Rieng 2-0.

Aiden O'Neill played 90 minutes in the New York derby as New York City FC lost 1-0 to the Red Bulls.

Kye Rowles played the full match for DC United, while Archie Goodwin came off the bench for Charlotte.

Patrick Yazbek played 83 minutes in Nashville's 3-0 win over Chicago as they continued their strong season.

In the NWSL, Mackenzie Arnold made five saves in Portland's 4-1 win over Orlando, while Sam Kerr played 90 minutes and registered an assist for Gotham.

The Australia Cup final is locked in.

South Melbourne produced another comeback to defeat Lions FC 3-1, with Bul Juach scoring another hat-trick in the competition.

They will now face Melbourne Victory in the final at AAMI Park on 10 October.

Football Australia has named two CommBank Joeys squads for September and October international tournaments.

The 2009-born Joeys will travel to Spain for the U17 Copa España 2026, where they will face Panama and Morocco as preparations continue for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.

The 2010-born squad will travel to China for the U16 CFA Invitational 2026, taking on Vietnam, Kyrgyz Republic and hosts China PR.

Apostolos Stamatelopoulos has signed with Macarthur, adding another attacking option to the Bulls.

We also discuss the latest developments surrounding the Australian Championship and the decision-making around the competition just one month out from its second edition.

• GK: Mackenzie Arnold
• DEF: Ryan Strain, Dylan Leonard, Jacob Italiano
• MID: Marcus Younis, Ethan Alagich, Alex Robertson, Daniel Arzani
• FWD: Annalise Rasmussen, Mitch Duke, Bul Juach

From the Socceroos' Brazil squad to Australians starring across Europe and Asia, the Australia Cup final, the Joeys and plenty more — there's plenty to unpack this week.

🎧 Listen on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

Follow us:

IG: @theaussiegame | FB: @theaussiegame | Threads: @theaussiegame | BlueSky: @aussiegame.bsky.social | X: @the_aussie_game

With just 12 days until the Socceroos face Brazil in Townsville, we look at the players making their case for Tony Popovic’s squad and ask who has done enough to earn a place against the Selecao.

The Socceroos’ November friendlies against Qatar and Jordan are also confirmed, while we react to the Young Socceroos’ Asian Cup qualification disappointment and look ahead to the Olyroos’ Olympic preparations, including their October clash with Korea Republic in Gosford.

A huge milestone for Gianni Stensness, who becomes the first Australian to feature in the UEFA Champions League since Milos Degenek in 2023. Stensness played the full 90 minutes in a 3-1 defeat to Stuttgart but produced an impressive individual performance with eight clearances, four recoveries and a 75% duel success rate.

Nestory Irankunda was an unused substitute as Sporting made an impressive start with a 3-1 win over Galatasaray.

There was plenty to discuss across the major European leagues:

• Lucas Herrington continues to earn opportunities in the Premier League for Hull City, including a full 90 minutes against Sunderland.
• Alex Robertson continues to impress for Cardiff City as they search for their first win of the Championship season.
• Mohamed Toure scored inside the first minute for Birmingham in a thrilling 4-3 defeat to Middlesbrough.
• Kealey Adamson impressed for QPR, completing 96% of his passes in a 0-0 draw with Charlton.
• Connor Metcalfe starred for St Pauli in a 1-0 win over Wolfsburg, earning Man of the Match honours.
• Mat Ryan saved a penalty and kept a clean sheet in Spain, making 10 saves in a 0-0 draw.
• Marco Tilio came off the bench to assist as Rapid Vienna won 3-0 and continued their excellent start to the Austrian season.
• Charli Grant provided an assist for Malmö in Sweden, while Remy Siemsen helped Rosengård climb out of the relegation zone.
• Kaitlyn Torpey backed up another strong performance for Newcastle and continues to strengthen her case for the Matildas.
• Sam Kerr assisted as Gotham bounced back with a 2-1 NWSL win.
• Alana Murphy scored for Nottingham Forest on the opening day of the WSL 2 season.
• Harry Souttar played the full match as Leicester won a seven-goal thriller against Stockport.

We also run through the latest performances from Australians in England, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Austria, Netherlands, Sweden, Scotland, Denmark, Hungary, Slovenia, Cyprus, Saudi Arabia, Japan, China, MLS and the NWSL.

There’s movement in the transfer market, with James Overy completing his move to Sydney FC, Mohamed Toure joining Macarthur FC, and reports that Colorado have signed Sydney FC youngster Akol Akon.

In Australia, Melbourne Victory defeated Sydney FC 2-0 to book their place in the Australia Cup final.

We discuss whether Mohamed Toure is pushing himself into the Socceroos conversation, how important Kaitlyn Torpeycould be for the Matildas, and what Gianni Stensness’ Champions League debut means for his international prospects.

There’s also discussion around Cristian Volpato’s injury and reported positive second sample, the latest developments involving Apostolos Stamatelopoulos, and the performances of Australia’s next generation around the world.

Our Team of the Week features:

Mat Ryan; Kaitlyn Torpey, Gianni Stensness, Harry Souttar, Charli Grant; Alex Robertson, Alana Murphy; Marco Tilio, Connor Metcalfe, Keegan Jelacic; Mohamed Toure.

Bench: Sam Kerr.

🎧 Listen on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

Follow us:

IG: @theaussiegame | FB: @theaussiegame | Threads: @theaussiegame | BlueSky: @aussiegame.bsky.social | X: @the_aussie_game

Socceroos Squad Picks

With the upcoming friendlies on the horizon, we each picked the Socceroos squad we’d like to see — not necessarily the squad we expect to be called up.

We run through our selections, surprise inclusions, omissions, and the players we think deserve a chance to impress.

Let us know who you'd like to see!

If you enjoy the show, subscribe, leave a review and follow us for weekly coverage of the Socceroos, Matildas, A-League and Australians playing around the world.

🎧 Listen on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

Follow us:

IG: @theaussiegame | FB: @theaussiegame | Threads: @theaussiegame | BlueSky: @aussiegame.bsky.social | X: @the_aussie_game

Magical Mo Toure is at it again! The 22-year-old continues his incredible scoring run for Norwich in the Championship, but could two out-of-favour Australian wingers finding form in Europe force their way into the next Socceroos squad?

We also look at a potentially long season ahead for Harry Souttar in League One, Riley McGree’s increasing minutes, and whether Scottish goalkeeper Jacob Chapman has done enough to enter the Socceroos conversation.

For the Matildas, Daniela Galic is flying in Sweden, while Ellie Carpenter and Alanna Kennedy continue their European campaigns.

• Lucas Herrington helped Hull City secure another clean sheet in a 0-0 draw, coming on in the 71st minute.
• Hull sit second with seven points after an impressive start.
• Hull face Chelsea in the Carabao Cup next.

• Mohamed Toure scored again as Norwich beat Sheffield United 3-1, taking him to three league goals and equal fourth in the Championship scoring charts.
• Toure played 71 minutes in a midweek 1-0 loss to Stoke.
• Riley McGree continues to build minutes, playing 55 minutes in a 1-0 win over Millwall after starting and playing 61 minutes against Burnley.
• A difficult week for Alex Robertson and Cardiff City, with losses to QPR and Portsmouth.
• Callum Elder played the full match in Lincoln's 0-0 draw with Blackburn but was an unused substitute against Southampton.
• Kealey Adamson made an 18-minute substitute appearance for QPR.

• Harry Souttar stayed at Leicester City and played the full match in a 2-0 win over Plymouth, before featuring in the 4-0 defeat to Oxford.
• Caleb Watts came off the bench against Leicester before scoring as Plymouth beat Doncaster 3-2.
• Luka Smyth featured in consecutive 1-1 draws for Notts County against Doncaster and Huddersfield.
• Sammy Silvera made substitute appearances in defeats/draws against Wigan and Wycombe.
• Raphael Borges Rodrigues made his Burton debut immediately after joining on loan.
• Clayton Taylor played 15 minutes in Barnsley's 5-1 loss to Stevenage.

• Peter Cklamovski's Salford City recorded consecutive wins, including a 1-0 victory over Port Vale.
• Kaelan Majekodunmi played a full match as Swindon beat Port Vale 3-1, then played the second half in another 3-1 win over Colchester.
• Swindon sit second in League Two.

• Alanna Kennedy started and played the full game as London City Lionesses won 2-1.
• Ellie Carpenter started for Chelsea and provided the assist for the opening goal in a 1-1 draw with Aston Villa.

• Paul Okon Jr started in midfield for Köln against Stuttgart before being substituted at half-time in a 4-1 defeat.
• Hayley Raso was sent off for Eintracht Frankfurt in a dramatic Champions League qualifier. Frankfurt eventually lost 6-2 after extra time.
• Jamilla Rankin featured in the second half of extra time.
• Connor Metcalfe played the second half as St Pauli drew 2-2, with Sam Klein also making a late appearance.

• Nestroy Irankunda came off the bench as Sporting won 2-0.
• Circati played from the 62nd minute as Benfica won 3-0 away.

• Max Ballard started for NAC Breda in a 4-2 defeat after his side went down to 10 men.

• Jed Drew played 12 minutes as Hartberg won 3-2.
• Marco Tilio scored in Rapid Wien's 3-1 win and remains part of an undefeated league-leading side.
• Rapid were then beaten 5-1 by Salzburg, with Tilio coming off the bench.
• Tilio started again and played 64 minutes in a 5-2 Austrian Cup win over Klagenfurt.

• Paul Izzo returned in goal as Randers won 2-1.
• Oliver Jones also gained valuable minutes after an injury-disrupted period since joining Randers.
• Marcus Younis played 65 minutes in Brondby's 3-1 defeat.

• Daniel Arzani was outstanding for Ferencvaros, assisting the opener in a 2-1 win over Puskas Academy.
• Arzani then assisted another opener in a 3-0 win over Gyor, playing 70 minutes.

• Gianni Stensness played another full match for Viking as they continue to chase Bodo/Glimt at the top of the table.
• Viking drew 1-1 and now sit three points behind the leaders.

A huge week for Australian players in Scotland.

• Cam Devlin started for Rangers in a 2-1 win over Falkirk.
• Ryan Strain provided assists in consecutive matches, continuing his excellent attacking form for Falkirk.
• Martin Boyle scored for Hibernian in a 2-1 win over Dundee before Hibs lost 3-1 to Hearts.
• Jake Iredale came on as an early injury replacement against Hearts before being sent off.
• Jacob Chapman was one of the week's biggest talking points, keeping a clean sheet in St Mirren's 1-0 win over Kilmarnock.
• Chapman then made five saves against Celtic in a 2-1 defeat. Could the St Mirren goalkeeper be a surprise Socceroos call-up?
• Jake Girdwood-Reich featured for Motherwell against Dundee United and Rangers.
• Josh Rawlins, Daniel Bennie and Zac Sapsford all started for Dundee United, with Lachie Rose featuring from the bench.

• Ya Ya Dukuly came off the bench in both a 4-1 defeat and a 2-0 bounce-back win for Celje.

• Cristian Volpato played 55 minutes as Sassuolo progressed in the Coppa Italia on penalties against Frosinone.

• Daniela Galic was the star, scoring twice in Vittsjo GIK's massive 5-0 victory.

• Chelsea completed a 6-2 aggregate win over Real Sociedad, with Ellie Carpenter playing 60 minutes in the second leg.
• Hayley Raso's red card proved costly for Eintracht Frankfurt as PSG ran over the top in extra time to win 5-1 on the night and 6-2 on aggregate.

• Ange Postecoglou suffered a 2-1 defeat against Al Ittihad.

• Kevin Muscat guided Shanghai Port into the China Cup semi-finals with a 3-0 win over Shandong.
• Shanghai then drew 0-0 with Beijing Guoan.
• John Aloisi's Chengdu Rongcheng could wrap up the title.

• Jackson Irvine played the full match as Cerezo Osaka beat Kashiwa Reysol 2-0.
• Tete Yengi played 60 minutes as Machida beat Kawasaki Frontale 2-1.
• Steve Corica's Yokohama FC drew 1-1 with Kyoto.
• Eli Adams played the full match in a 2-2 draw with V-Varen Nagasaki.

• Aiden O'Neill returned for New York City FC, playing 20 minutes off the bench in a 0-0 draw with Nashville.
• Patrick Yazbek started for Nashville and played 55 minutes.
• Archie Goodwin played seven minutes in Charlotte's 0-0 draw with Houston.

• Leticia McKenna joins Nottingham Forest for a record transfer fee.
• Hayden Matthews joins Bradford City on a season-long loan.
• Raphael Borges Rodrigues joins Burton Albion on loan for the season.
• Dylan Leonard joins Alemannia Aachen on loan in Germany.
• Kusini Yengi joins Sanfrecce Hiroshima on loan until the end of the year, with an option to make the move permanent.
• Ryan Fraser joins Macarthur FC.

The Australia U-20s opened their Asian Cup qualification campaign with a controlled 2-0 win over Laos. Marcus Neill converted a penalty before Melbourne City's Lewis Marinucci found the far corner directly from a corner.

The Young Socceroos then drew 2-2 with Malaysia in a disrupted encounter, leaving qualification going down to the wire.

• The groups for the inaugural Australian Championship have been announced.

Football Australia has announced Australia's youngest-ever national programs, introducing boys' and girls' U-15 National Select sides.

• The boys' team will compete at the inaugural FIFA U-15 World Cup & Festival in Azerbaijan in October.
• The girls' team will debut at the women's edition next year.
• From 2028, both U-15 World Cups are scheduled to be held annually.
• Michael Cooper has been appointed as Football Australia's Pathways Talent Identification Lead.
• The new programs are designed to give Australia's best young players their first experience of international tournament football.
• The U-15 tournament in Azerbaijan runs from October 22–31 and will use a modified, fast-paced format rather than traditional 11-a-side football.

GK: Jacob Chapman

DEF: Ellie Carpenter, Lucas Herrington, Alanna Kennedy, Kaelan Majekodunmi

MID: Aiden O'Neill, Patrick Yazbek

FWD: Caleb Watts, Daniela Galic, Martin Boyle, Mohamed Toure

If you enjoy the show, subscribe, leave a review and follow us for weekly coverage of the Socceroos, Matildas, A-League and Australians playing around the world.

🎧 Listen on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

Follow us:

IG: @theaussiegame | FB: @theaussiegame | Threads: @theaussiegame | BlueSky: @aussiegame.bsky.social | X: @the_aussie_game

Two young Australian strikers stole the show this week as Mohamed Toure and Luka Smyth both scored braces for Norwich City and Notts County.

We look at Toure’s incredible scoring form and whether he could still leave Norwich before the transfer window closes, while Smyth continues his rise with another match-winning performance.

Around the world, we cover the latest from Socceroos and Matildas players overseas, including:

Kyra Cooney-Cross returns for Arsenal and scores a stunning goal.

Ellie Carpenter stars for Chelsea in Champions League qualifying.

Cristian Volpato finds the net for Sassuolo.

Paul Okon-Engstler makes his Bundesliga debut.

Mat Ryan delivers another Man of the Match performance for Levante.

Nestory Irankunda, Tete Yengi, Jackson Irvine, Gianni Stensness and more feature across Europe and Asia.

Huge Champions League, Europa League and Conference League qualification drama, including heartbreak for Marcus Tilio.

John Aloisi's Chengdu Rongcheng move closer to the Chinese Super League title.

Ange Postecoglou leads Al Nassr to a remarkable comeback win in Saudi Arabia.

Back home, we discuss the Australia Cup semi-finalists, Adam Taggart's move to Vietnam, Tyrese Francois joining Brisbane Roar, Andy Harper's comments on the A-League and the newly confirmed Australian Championship.

We also have the latest on the Matildas, Junior Matildas, Graham Arnold, Australia's upcoming clash with Colombia, and finish with our Team of the Week.

If you enjoy the show, subscribe, leave a review and follow us for weekly coverage of the Socceroos, Matildas, A-League and Australians playing around the world.

🎧 Listen on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

Follow us:

IG: @theaussiegame | FB: @theaussiegame | Threads: @theaussiegame | BlueSky: @aussiegame.bsky.social | X: @the_aussie_game

Alessandro Circati becomes the latest young Socceroo to make a huge move to Europe, joining Benfica from Parma for a reported $33 million AUD. We break down what the transfer means for Circati and his development, while also covering a big week of Australian footballers making their mark overseas.

• Alessandro Circati joins Benfica: The young Socceroo signs a five-year deal in a reported $33M AUD transfer from Parma.
• Lucas Herrington makes his Premier League debut: The Hull defender delivered a composed 26-minute cameo in their huge win over Manchester United, winning all three of his aerial duels.
• Nestory Irankunda debuts for Sporting: The Australian winger created three chances in 22 minutes off the bench.
• Patrick Beach starts in France: The goalkeeper kept a clean sheet for Troyes against Paris FC.
• Goals and assists across Europe: Christian Volpato, Josh Nisbet, Noa Skoko, Amy Sayer and others found the scoresheet or contributed to big results.
• Jackson Irvine shines in Japan: The Socceroos captain made his first start for his new club and provided the assist in a 1-0 win.
• Ange Postecoglou keeps winning in Saudi Arabia: Two league wins and a cup victory maintain his side's position at the top.
• Jordy Bos suffers a serious knee injury: The Dutch-based Australian is facing a lengthy six-month layoff, putting his Asian Cup hopes in doubt.

We dive deeper into Alessandro Circati’s move from Parma to Benfica and what the next step could mean for the young defender.

Circati has already captained both Parma and the Socceroos at a remarkably young age, highlighting his leadership qualities and enormous potential. Benfica also offers the opportunity to compete in European football, with the Portuguese giants involved in the Europa League playoff.

The big question: Is the Portuguese league a stronger environment for Circati than Serie A? While Serie A offers a higher overall standard across the league, Benfica provides regular title contention and European football.

Lucas Herrington's Premier League debut was a standout, with the young defender recording:

• 26 minutes
• 100% passing accuracy
• 9 touches
• 4 clearances
• 3 headed clearances
• 3/3 aerial duels won
• 0 fouls committed

Alex Robertson played 90 minutes in Cardiff’s 2-2 draw with Derby, while Riley McGree, Mo Toure and Kealey Adamson also featured in the Championship.

• Josh Nisbet scored and earned Man of the Match honours for Roda JC.
• Christian Volpato opened the scoring in Sassuolo’s 3-0 Coppa Italia win.
• Noa Skoko scored for Rudes in Croatia.
• Amy Sayer rescued a point for Malmö with an equaliser.
• Remy Siemsen scored for Kristianstads, assisted by Bryleeh Henry.
• Hayley Raso started for Eintracht Frankfurt.
• Marcus Younis continued his run of starts for Brondby.
• Musa Toure scored off the bench for Randers in the Danish Cup.
• Gianni Stensness featured in Viking’s Champions League playoff comeback.
• Cam Devlin was sent off shortly after coming on for Rangers.

Jackson Irvine provided an assist on his first start in Japan as Yokohama secured a 1-0 win.

In China, John Aloisi’s Chengdu Rongcheng suffered a wild 5-4 defeat, while Nick Montgomery’s Beijing Guoan conceded a late goal to limit the damage in the table. Ross Aloisi’s Zhejiang Professional grabbed a late equaliser and sit 11th.

In Saudi Arabia, Ange Postecoglou continues to entertain and win, with his side maintaining top spot after two league victories and a cup win.

The A-League clubs now know their potential Asian opponents, with Newcastle Jets facing a challenging path that includes some of Asia’s biggest clubs.

Key opponents include Shanghai Port, Kashima Antlers, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Vissel Kobe, Kashiwa Reysol, Beijing Guoan, Gamba Osaka and Kyoto Sanga.

The playoff decider is set for 31 August 2026.

• Sydney FC squeezed past SD Raiders in the Australia Cup quarter-finals.
• Melbourne Victory also progressed to the semi-finals.
• A-League Women fixtures have been released.
• Dean Heffernan has been appointed Mariners Women’s head coach.
• Sutherland Sharks qualified for the Australian Championship.
• Mile Sterjovski and Macarthur Bulls have mutually parted ways, with Sasa Ognenovski taking over.
• Nishan Velupillay has joined Ingolstadt in Germany.
• Awan Lual is attracting interest from clubs across eight overseas leagues.
• Changes have been made to the Young Socceroos squad ahead of U20 Asian Cup qualifying.

GK: Mackenzie Arnold

DEF: Kealey Adamson, Lucas Herrington, Gianni Stensness, Ben Garuccio

MID: Noa Skoko, Eddie Caspers, Josh Nisbet

ATT: Christian Volpato, Amy Sayer, Remy Siemsen

SUB: Charli Grant

From Circati’s blockbuster Benfica transfer to Herrington’s Premier League debut and another big week for Australians across Europe and Asia, there’s plenty to discuss in this week’s episode.

If you enjoy the show, subscribe, leave a review and follow us for weekly coverage of the Socceroos, Matildas, A-League and Australians playing around the world.

🎧 Listen on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

Follow us:

IG: @theaussiegame | FB: @theaussiegame | Threads: @theaussiegame | BlueSky: @aussiegame.bsky.social | X: @the_aussie_game