This week, Australia’s football scene has shifted its focus to the thrilling world of six-a-side as the national team, known as the Sixaroos, prepares to compete in the Socca World Cup in Cancun, Mexico. Led by coach Kevin-Prince Boateng and comprised of players with A-League and NPL experience, the team’s journey unfolds as they gear up to face Ireland in their opening match.
Team captain and Socca Australia president Sam Young emphasizes that “Sixaroos is a relatively newly-founded national six-a-side team” that participates under the auspices of the International Socca Federation. Young describes six-a-side football as a foundational form of the sport that enhances players’ skills with fast-paced, intense play. The smaller field size encourages numerous touches on the ball, offering a unique opportunity for skill development before transitioning to the traditional 11-a-side format.
The International Socca Federation not only organizes competitions but also boasts a collection of famous ambassadors, which includes football legends like Ronaldinho and Roberto Carlos. Currently, Australia ranks 63rd in the world among 73 participating nations, with Kazakhstan leading the ranks.
In terms of player profile, Young describes those suited for six-a-side as hybrids between traditional 11-a-side players and futsal athletes. The dynamic nature of the game relies heavily on technical prowess and quick decision-making, often culminating in intense one-on-one confrontations.
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This marks Australia’s second appearance at the Socca World Cup, having made their debut last year in Oman, where they faced a tough group stage, losing narrowly to strong teams including Mexico and Peru. The lessons learned from that experience have played a vital role in shaping their preparations and strategy as the squad seeks to improve this time around.
This year’s roster features notable names, with A-League star Danny De Silva highlighting the lineup. De Silva, who has previously played for Australia at junior international levels, described his excitement for the opportunity, recalling his childhood passion for street football and small-sided games. He viewed this venture not only as personal growth but also as a chance to rekindle his love for the game.
Joining De Silva is Steve Kuzmanovski, a familiar name in Australian football, who came on board after a serendipitous encounter during a charity match. Kuzmanovski expressed enthusiasm about returning to the national side, adding that small-sided games have always been a part of his football journey.
While A-League veteran Milos Ninkovic was slated to join the Sixaroos, he had to withdraw due to coaching commitments. Nonetheless, the team welcomes the expertise of Kevin-Prince Boateng, who has transitioned into a coaching role after a storied career in some of Europe’s top leagues. Boateng’s passion for six-a-side football came through during training sessions, as he focused on instilling drive and discipline in the squad, drawing from his own experiences in the sport.
Australia is set to face formidable opponents at the World Cup, including host nation Mexico and Belgium. Young noted the significant challenge awaiting the Sixaroos, asserting that their previous experience will serve them well as they navigate this competitive landscape.
The tournament features a custom-built stadium in Cancun, intended to foster an electrifying atmosphere for both players and fans. Young highlighted the excitement surrounding the unique venue and the opportunity to compete in front of a supportive crowd.
As the Sixaroos embark on their campaign, they carry the ambitions of making a significant impact and advancing beyond the group stage for the first time in their history. The team’s spirit and dedication reflect an evolving landscape in Australian football, as they prepare to showcase their talent on the world stage.
