The Socceroos are turning to assistant coach Mile Jedinak, who boasts a flawless penalty record during his international playing career, as they prepare for a potential shootout against Egypt in the World Cup last-32 match in Dallas. Jedinak never missed a penalty for Australia, scoring three World Cup spot kicks in 2014 and 2018.
Jedinak's Legendary Penalty Record
Jedinak initially deflected questions about his record, saying, “You know the answer to that. We’re not here to talk about me.” However, he later shared insights: “You need to allow the individuals to figure their process out, and you only do that by repetition.” His career includes more than 400 matches, captaining Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and the Socceroos. He scored crucial penalties, including two against Honduras to qualify for the 2018 World Cup and spot kicks against France and Denmark in Russia.
Young Defender Circati Ready to Step Up
Defender Alessandro Circati, 22, has both scored and missed penalties but never for Australia. He said, “If I’m there, I’d be confident enough to take it as I’m quite confident in that situation.” The final lineup will be decided by coach Tony Popovic and staff, including Jedinak, but Circati noted, “They’ll give a guideline, but then obviously, whoever is – in the moment – willing to take the penalty and take it, will step up.”
Jedinak's Simple Approach to Penalties
Jedinak described his technique: “Taking the moment, controlling the situation with the ball, trying not to focus on anything else, purely: ball, me and where I was going to put it. [Then] clean contact, strong enough that if the goalkeeper goes the right way that it’s going to beat him.” He warns against overthinking: “It’s not straightforward. But I don’t think it’s that complex either, to be honest.”
Likely Penalty Takers for Australia
Australia has several potential penalty takers, including Ajdin Hrustic (scorer in the 2022 Europa League final), Nestory Irankunda (first senior international goal against Palestine in 2024), and Awer Mabil (scored in the 2022 shootout win over Peru). Connor Metcalfe and Jordy Bos expressed confidence, while striker Mo Touré missed a penalty for Norwich in April.
