H. Çalhanoğlu
Inter · UEFA Nations League · Midfielder · #20 · Türkiye · 31 yrs
H. Çalhanoğlu news
World Cup 2026: What is Australia current FIFA world Ranking?
In their sixth consecutive World Cup appearance, Australia have already managed to make a major statement by defeating Türkiye. As a result, they have managed to climb in the FIFA Men’s World Ranking, which has been improving for several years. Throughout the last few years, Australia have managed to be a recurring participant in the World Cup. Since the 2006 edition, they have qualified for the tournament consecutively. Although they do not usually get past the group stage, they reached the Round of 16 in Qatar 2022. In the 2026 World Cup, they already defeated Türkiye, surprising everyone. With this, they managed to climb positions in the FIFA Men’s World Ranking, which has improved in recent years. According to the FIFA Men’s World Ranking, Australia are ranked 27th with 1,605.61 points. After having defeated Turkiye in their debut, they have escalated their position in the standings. In November of 2024, they were ranked as 102nd, being his worst position ever. With his great performances, they have managed to significantly improve their international standing. However, they have yet to match their highest-ever ranking, which was 14th in September of 2009. Australia have improved their FIFA ranking spots, but they remain the second-highest ranked national team in their group at the 2026 World Cup. USMNT currently hold the 15th spot with 1688.53 points. Turkiye hold the 26th spot in the ranking with 1579.47 points. Finally, Paraguay rank as the lowest-ranked national team in the group, holding the 52nd spot with 1488.05 points. In their seventh World Cup participation, they aim to reach the knockout stage for the second time in a row after Qatar 2022. Even though Australia do not possess a particularly strong attacking unit, they have demonstrated their defense solidity, being able to counterattack efficiently. With USMNT as their next clash, they may need to repeat their consistency, as Mauricio Pochettino’s team have impose as one of best offensive units. Connor Metcalfe of Australia battles for the ball with Hakan Calhanoglu of Turkiye. Australia may shock rivals with a double defensive line high press Despite not being one of the top contenders, Australia managed to surprise everyone, defeating Türkiye by a convincing 2-0 scoreline. Far from shinning in an offensive spot, head coach Tony Popovic has built his team from the defense line ahead. Showcasing his great work, they managed to shine with a double defensive line that excels with a high press. With this strategy, they may surprise USMNT and Paraguay in the 2026 World Cup. In case they manage to impose their brilliant style of play, they could secure their place in the knockout stages of the tournament. By pressing their opponents high, Australia suffocate any attacking threat, relying on counterattacks and aerial play as its main strengths. Far from being simple, they could suffer from balls played in behind, as the USMNT could take advantage of their pace to counterattack, meaning a solid defense will once again be key.
Australia 2-0 Turkey: World Cup 2026 – live reaction
⚽️ Irankunda and Metcalfe strikes seal Socceroos’ win in Vancouver⚽️ Player guide | Bracketology | Golden Boot | Mail JonathanKenan Yildiz starts on the bench as he recovers from a slight knock. Kerem Aktürkoğlu starts up front in the only deviation from what you might consider Turkey’s best XI.23 Cakir (gk), 20 Kadioglu, 14 Bardakci, 3 Demiral, 2 Celik; 16 Yuksek, 10 Calhanoglu (c); 21 Yilmaz, 6 Kokcu, 8 Guler; 7 Akturkoglu. Continue reading...
Turkiye 2026 World Cup preview: Squad breakdown, key player, and tactical analysis
Full preview of Turkiye for the 2026 World Cup, including squad breakdown, key players, and tactical analysis of their chances. Turkiye are back on the global stage after a 24-year absence. The national team last appeared at the 2002 tournament, where they secured a historic third-place finish. Currently ranked 22nd in the world, the squad arrives in North America with high expectations. A successful qualifying campaign proved they can compete with the best FIFA World Cup 2026 teams. This summer, the team revolves around a dynamic blend of youth and experience. Emerging stars like Arda Güler and Kenan Yıldız provide attacking flair, while captain Hakan Çalhanoğlu dictates the tempo from midfield. Drawn into Group D alongside the United States, Australia, and Paraguay, Turkiye will look to make a deep run. Team profile CoachVincenzo MontellaCaptainHakan ÇalhanoğluNicknameAy-Yıldızlılar (The Crescent-Stars), Bizim Çocuklar (Our Children)FIFA ranking22ndConfederationUEFAGroupGroup DBest World Cup resultThird place (2002)World Cup appearances3Last World Cup appearance2002 How Turkiye play Vincenzo Montella prefers a 4-2-3-1 formation for the national team. This tactical setup relies on a solid double-pivot in midfield. Hakan Çalhanoğlu typically anchors this midfield base. He dictates the tempo from deep, allowing the wingers and attacking midfielders the freedom to push forward and create chances. During the qualifiers, Turkiye averaged 53.6% possession alongside an 85.5% passing accuracy. They are no longer just a counter-attacking side. Instead, they actively control the ball and orchestrate the rhythm of the match. The Turkiye formation utilizes quick, vertical passing to break lines. Attackers like Arda Güler and Kenan Yıldız pull defenders out of position. This movement creates vast pockets of space for overlapping fullbacks like Ferdi Kadıoğlu to exploit. However, our Turkiye tactical analysis reveals a notable vulnerability. The team allowed 1.5 goals per game during recent qualifiers. Their defensive structure can be exposed by top-tier opponents if the center-backs lose focus. Vincenzo Montella: The coach behind Turkiye Montella took charge of the Turkiye national team in September 2023. This marks his first major international tournament as a manager. Before taking the national job, the Italian coach built an extensive resume at the club level. He managed prominent Italian sides including AC Milan, Fiorentina, and Sampdoria. He also spent time in Spain with Sevilla. His most recent club role was with Adana Demirspor. He successfully guided them to European qualification before stepping into the international arena.The Turkiye coach has brought tactical flexibility and an attacking mindset to the squad. Under his leadership, the team averages 1.77 goals per game. Montella has stabilized the program and maximized the output of his young stars. His ability to adapt in high-pressure matches will be crucial for Turkiye this summer. Key player: Arda Güler Arda Güler is the creative engine for this national team. The Real Madrid attacking midfielder carries much of the offensive responsibility. Despite his young age, he is already one of the premier Turkiye key players. Güler registered nine assists in just 25 starts during his recent La Liga campaign.His international form is equally impressive. During qualifying, he recorded four assists and maintained an 89.3% passing accuracy. Arda Güler of Turkiye (Getty Images). Güler possesses exceptional technical ability. His dribbling in tight spaces and outstanding vision make him a constant threat. He is also a lethal option on set pieces, capable of scoring directly from free kicks. Turkiye’s road to the 2026 World Cup Turkiye navigated a challenging qualification path to secure their spot in North America. They finished second in Group E behind a dominant Spanish side. The team recorded four wins, one draw, and one loss during the group stage. They showed immense resilience by ea