Socceroos v Turkey: stats, stars and key facts

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The stage if set for Australia to start their World Cup campaign. -AAP Image

AUSTRALIA V TURKEY

Sunday June 14, 1400 AEDT.

BC Place, Vancouver, Canada

World ranking: Australia 27, Turkey 22

Coaches: Australia: Tony Popovic, Turkey: Vincenzo Montella

Highest ever ranking: Australia 14 (2009), Turkey 5 (2004)

Lowest ever ranking: Australia 102 (2014), Turkey 67 (1993)

Head-to-head: Played 2: Australia 0 wins, 0 draws, 2 losses

Best World Cup finish: Australia: R16 (2016, 2022), Turkey: Third (2002)

Population: Australia: 28 million Turkey: 87.9 million

PAST MEETINGS:

21/05/2004: Turkey 3-1 (friendly, Sydney, Australia)

24/05/2004: Turkey 1-0 (friendly, Melbourne, Australia)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

* Arda Guler (Turkey)

The Real Madrid young gun with a beautiful left foot is a modern playmaker who can be deployed centrally or wide.

* Kenan Yildiz (Turkey)

The Juventus phenom is on his way back from a calf injury but if fit, looms as a menace down the left wing. Yildiz translates to "star", hence the young gun's famous celebration where he makes a star with his hands.

* Nestory Irankunda (Australia)

An explosive attacker with a rocket of a right boot who could be absolutely anything. The biggest question mark is on whether he will be used from the start

* Jordan Bos (Australia)

Has been compared to former Wales and Real Madrid star Gareth Bale by some pundits. Australia's left wing-back has incredible pace, dribbling ability and a lovely shot to boot.