Kewell has identified Irankunda as a key attacking outlet for the Socceroos, particularly if the team spends long periods defending. The report says the former Australia forward wants the young attacker to play with freedom rather than carry the weight of expectation alone.
“Você vê que ele é poderoso e forte”, Kewell said, praising the forward’s physical qualities. Irankunda’s pace, strength and willingness to attack space offer Australia a direct route out of pressure when the midfield is forced deep.
The report also highlights his influence in the 1-1 friendly draw with Switzerland, including a powerful effort that struck the crossbar after a goalkeeper’s save. Those moments underline why Irankunda could become central to Australia’s tournament plan.
Australia appears likely to adopt a compact shape, protect the central areas and wait for opportunities to break. The heat and demands of a major tournament may also favour a controlled approach rather than an open, end-to-end contest.
That plan will require patience without the ball and precision once possession is won. Irankunda’s first movement could be crucial, whether he is attacking the space behind Turkey’s defence or carrying the ball through the first challenge.
The opener will reveal whether Australia can turn defensive discipline into genuine attacking threat. If Irankunda receives the ball early enough and close enough to goal, one moment of acceleration could change the contest.
The next storyline to watch is simple: can the Socceroos create enough openings for Irankunda to decide one?