Harry Kewell ‘blown away’ after World Cup statement as Turkey captain sends warning to Aussies

The Turkey captain didn’t hold back when talking about the game against Australia

Socceroos legend Harry Kewell has been left stunned at the USA’s performance in their opening World Cup win over Paraguay as the host nation made a statement. This comes as the Turkey captain claimed his side will ‘dominate’ Australia in their opening game.

Australia were drawn against Turkey, USA and Paraguay in a tough group D with plenty of question marks around who will progress. The USA’s rollercoaster form heading into the opening game had many waiting to see if coach Mauricio Pochettino could get the best out of the group.

And it didn’t take long for the USA to show their intent having torn apart an abysmal Paraguay defence in the opening 45 minutes. After some slick passing from the USA, Paraguay star Damián Bobadilla steered the ball into his net from a Weston McKennie cross.

And Folarin Balogun then added two more goals before half-time to leave Paraguay shellshocked. Speaking at half-time on the SBS broadcast, Australian football legend Kewell spoke highly of the USA’s start to the tournament. “We didn’t know what we were going to get…but even I’ve been blown away,” Kewell said during the game.

“Pochettino couldn’t have asked for a better start.” This was a big statement with the Socceroos facing the USA next week in their second group game

USA start strong at World Cup

While Paraguay clawed one back after the break, the USA capitalised again when Giovanni Reyna scored in the 97th minute. It was a brilliant start for the USA and goes a long way in helping them secure qualification for the next round. The only concern for Pochettino was Christian Pulisic coming off after 45 minutes. Although it appears this was just out of precaution.

The victory marked their greatest ever winning margin against Paraguay set way back in 1930. They are also on a 19-year undefeated run against La Albirroja. The last time the USA hosted the World Cup they reached the Round of 16. And this win is a huge step towards replicating this feat. The 4-1 win also equalled the national team’s best ever performance at the World Cup, which was set 96 years ago during the 1930 tournament.

USA break records with World Cup win

Meanwhile, Turkey captain Hakan Calhanoglu has sent a warning to the Aussies after claiming his side will ‘dominate’ the Socceroos. Turkey and Australia will meet for their opening game in Group D. Turkey are favourites to progress in the group with stars such as Arda Guler leading an exciting side.

And captain Calhanoglu is confident the team will put on a show against Australia. “I think we will dominate (Saturday), the game, because we have more qualities and a more talented team,” Calhanoglu said. “So we will see (Saturday) what happens.” Tony Popovic and his side will be looking to secure some points against Turkey with the USA’s win a huge statement in Group D.