Irankunda & A-Leagues headline Joeys’ Asian Cup squad

The A-Leagues is front and centre in Australia’s squad for this month’s AFC Under-17 Asian Cup in Thailand, with Adelaide United sensation Nestory Irankunda headlining the roster.

Irankunda is one of 22 Isuzu UTE A-League-based players in the Joeys’ squad for the upcoming tournament in Bangkok and Chonburi, where Australia will face Saudi Arabia (June 16), China PR (June 19) and Tajikistan (June 22) in Group C.

Exciting Central Coast Mariners prospect Miguel Di Pizio and captain-goalkeeper Anthony Pavlesic are also heading to Thailand, with the Joeys needing to advance to the semi-finals to qualify for November’s FIFA U17 World Cup.

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“Competition for selection in the final 23 for these under-17 World Cup qualifiers has been hotly contested and a process which commenced in August,” said Joeys head coach Brad Maloney.

“Over this period, the coaching staff have monitored upwards of one hundred players but ultimately selected a squad which provides both depth and versatility based upon our opposition and the tournament format, which will see the team play every third day in hot and humid conditions.

“We are acutely aware that we have a very challenging draw, however, we approach the tournament not only wanting to reach the semi-finals to secure a place at this year’s under-17 World Cup but create history by becoming the first Australian national youth team to win an AFC Asian Cup title.”

Joeys’ Asian Cup group-stage schedule

Friday June 16 – Australia vs Saudi Arabia at 5.00pm local / 8.00pm AEST, Chonburi Stadium

Monday June 19 – Australia vs China PR at 5.00pm local / 8.00pm AEST, Chonburi Stadium

Thursday June 22 – Australia vs Tajikistan at 5.00pm local / 8.00pm AEST, Rajamangala National Stadium (Bangkok)

The Joeys’ Asian Cup matches will be LIVE and FREE on 10 Play.

Joeys’ Asian Cup squad