The Importance of the England-Australia Rivalry: Gareth Southgate Fires Up His Team
Gareth Southgate, the manager of the England national football team, has emphasized the significance of the rivalry between England and Australia ahead of their upcoming friendly match. Southgate believes that the Australians have a strong dislike for the English team and has urged his players to be prepared for a highly motivated opponent.
The rivalry between England and Australia extends beyond football. In cricket, Australia’s national team, known as the Baggy Greens, retained The Ashes during the summer. However, they are currently struggling in the World Cup. In rugby union, the Wallabies failed to qualify for the flagship event. These recent disappointments for Australia in other sports make them even more determined to defeat England in football.
Southgate reminded his players of past encounters between the two nations. In 2003, when Southgate was still a player for Middlesbrough, Australia’s national team, known as the Socceroos, humiliated England with a 3-1 victory at Upton Park. Southgate recalled how the Australian players celebrated their win by bringing a blow-up kangaroo to taunt him and his teammates.
The England manager knows Graham Arnold, the current coach of the Australian national team, well. Arnold was Frank Farina’s assistant during that memorable victory at Upton Park. Southgate acknowledges Arnold’s coaching abilities and expects a tough test from his team. He believes that the Australians are athletic and work incredibly hard on the pitch.
While Southgate is focused on the friendly match against Australia, he also has one eye on the Euro 2024 qualifier against Italy on Tuesday. He emphasizes the importance of winning and improving with every opportunity to play at Wembley Stadium. For some players, it will be their first chance to represent England at Wembley, which is a special moment in any player’s career.
In other news, it was announced that England will co-host Euro 2028 alongside Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland. Southgate believes that this is a fantastic opportunity for all the countries involved. Hosting a major tournament provides home advantage and is beneficial for local businesses and fans who get to see their teams play on home soil.
Ahead of the match, both teams will wear black armbands as a tribute to the innocent victims of the conflict in Israel and Palestine. A period of silence will also be observed to honor those affected by the ongoing conflict.
In conclusion, Gareth Southgate has fired up his England players by reminding them of the intense rivalry between England and Australia. He has warned his team to be prepared for a highly motivated opponent who wants to defeat them. Southgate believes that winning and improving with every opportunity is crucial, and playing at Wembley is a special experience for the players. The announcement of England co-hosting Euro 2028 is seen as a positive development for all the countries involved. The match against Australia will be a test for both teams, and Southgate expects a tough challenge from the Australians.