Socceroos’ Kusini Yengi Named to Start Against Uzbekistan in Asian Cup

Australia’s Socceroos have announced their starting lineup for their final group game against Uzbekistan in the Asian Cup, replacing the injured Mitch Duke with Kusini Yengi.

Coach Graham Arnold has made several changes to his lineup, aiming to secure top spot in Group B with a win or draw.

Yengi, a striker from Portsmouth, will make his first start for the Socceroos and will have the opportunity to score his first international goal. The 36-year-old Bruno Fornaroli, who had been a favorite to replace Duke, will start on the bench.

The team will also see Riley McGree making his first start of the tournament as he replaces Connor Metcalfe in the attacking midfielder position.

Other changes include Keanu Baccus stepping in for Aiden O'Neill in a holding midfield role, Kye Rowles replacing Cameron Burgess at centre-back, and Nathaniel Atkinson taking over Gethin Jones’ right-back position.

The Socceroos will face Uzbekistan in a crucial match that will determine their group standings. A win or draw will secure top spot, while a loss could mean finishing second.

With these changes, the Socceroos will field a strong lineup consisting of Mat Ryan as captain, along with Harry Souttar, Aziz Behich, Jackson Irvine, Martin Boyle, and Jordan Bos.