Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Mike Grella Socceroos tension has grown before Australia’s FIFA World Cup meeting with the United States, after the former Major League Soccer player doubled down on his criticism of the Australian team.
Grella had earlier called the Socceroos “the weakest team” in Group D and described the Australia fixture as “a layup” for the host nation, before Australia beat Turkey 2-0 in Vancouver.
The exchange adds another storyline to a tense World Cup week after Tunisia Sack Sabri Lamouchi, Appoint Hervé Renard After Sweden Defeat, with Group D attention now turning to Australia against the United States. Fans can follow official tournament updates through the FIFA website.
Grella Stands by Australia View
Grella’s CBS colleagues moved away from his comments after Australia’s win over Turkey, with Tony Meola saying he was “most worried” about facing the Socceroos.
Jimmy Conrad also said Australia had been underrated.
“Everybody just keeps discounting Australia and it seems to be not the right thing to do. So thanks, Grella, we appreciate that,” Conrad said.
Former Australian Football League player Dan Gorringe later posted a video mocking Grella’s view, prompting Grella to reply on social media.
“Yo this s***’s hilarious,” Grella wrote.
“See you Friday,” he added.
Socceroos Earn Respect From USA Players
Australia face the United States on Saturday morning at 5am AEST, with the winner able to take a major step in Group D.
Former United States midfielder Benny Feilhaber said Australia’s clarity makes them hard to face.
“It might not be always the most attractive, but it’s extremely effective, and I think that that’s going to be a difficulty that the US finds to break down.”
United States midfielder Tyler Adams rejected the idea that Australia would be easy.
“I don’t think any commentary helps anybody and no, it’s not gonna be a lay-up,” Adams said.
“If anything, it’s gonna be one of the most difficult games that we play.”
Australia forward Nestory Irankunda also responded after scoring against Turkey.
“People can talk all they want but if they’re not going to put a performance out there on the pitch, then there’s no point in talking.”