Turkey captain Hakan Calhanoglu says his more talented team will dominate Australia in World Cup

Turkey is returning to the World Cup for the first time since 2002, and captain Hakan Calhanoglu has already added extra drama before the team’s opening match against Australia. Speaking on Friday in Vancouver, Calhanoglu said Turkey expects to control Saturday’s game at BC Place because, in his view, the squad has “more qualities” and “more talent” than Australia.

Turkey’s absence from the tournament has been long, as the national team failed to qualify for the past five World Cups. Even so, the team has experienced notable success in European competition during the 21st century and arrives with renewed confidence. Australia, meanwhile, is making its sixth straight World Cup appearance and reached the knockout stage at the 2022 tournament in Qatar.

Calhanoglu’s comments were met with a calm response from Australia midfielder Aiden O’Neill, who said the Socceroos are not bothered by the Turkish captain’s confidence. O’Neill noted that Australia also has quality players and said the team is prepared for the challenge.

The exchange has added intrigue to the matchup, but both sides also showed mutual respect. Calhanoglu, a 32-year-old midfielder who helped Inter Milan win the Serie A title this season, also praised Australia’s squad. Turkey manager Vincenzo Montella echoed that sentiment, saying he would like to borrow some of Australia’s techniques because he finds them interesting.

The match brings together a resurgent Turkish side looking to make an immediate impression on its long-awaited World Cup return and an Australian team that has become a regular presence on the world stage. Turkey’s confidence, Australia’s experience, and the backdrop of opening-round pressure make the contest one of the more intriguing fixtures early in the tournament.

For Turkey, the game represents more than just a first step; it is a chance to show that its absence from recent World Cups does not reflect its current quality. For Australia, it is an opportunity to prove once again that its consistency and depth can stand up to a European opponent with strong individual talent.

With kickoff approaching, both teams are entering the match with belief, competitive edge and respect for the other side. Calhanoglu’s bold prediction has only sharpened attention on what should be a closely watched opening encounter in Vancouver.