Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
Harry Kewell has responded strongly to criticism from American pundit Mike Grella ahead of Australia's key FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage match against the United States. The Socceroos legend dismissed suggestions that Australia would be an easy opponent and questioned the USA's football pedigree as tensions continue to build before the Group D showdown in Seattle. The comments come after Australia opened its campaign with a surprise 2 to 0 victory over Turkiye, while the United States defeated Paraguay 4 to 1.
The war of words began when former American player and television pundit Mike Grella described Australia as a "lay up" opponent and predicted the Socceroos would struggle to compete in the group.
Grella's comments quickly attracted attention across both countries, particularly after Australia's impressive opening victory challenged pre tournament expectations.
Kewell dismisses American criticism
Kewell did not hold back when asked about the remarks.
The former Liverpool star said he was unfamiliar with Grella and argued that Australia's football history compared favourably with that of the United States.
"The USA is talking like they're some unbelievable footballing nation," Kewell told Code Sports.
He pointed to Australia's highly regarded golden generation, which featured players such as Tim Cahill, Mark Viduka, Lucas Neill and Kewell himself.
Kewell suggested a meeting between Australia's best generation and the strongest American team from the same era would not have been competitive.
He also noted that many of Australia's leading players spent their careers competing at the highest levels of European football.
Social media exchange adds fuel
The disagreement intensified through social media after former AFL player Dan Gorringe shared a video of Grella's comments.
Gorringe responded with a blunt message directed at the American pundit, who replied with a light hearted response ahead of Friday's match.
The exchange has helped increase anticipation for one of the most important fixtures in Group D.
Despite the growing attention, Kewell believes the Australian squad will not be distracted by outside opinions.
"Water off a duck's back," he said.
The Socceroos great added that players should focus on performances rather than public debate and allow results on the pitch to speak for themselves.
Respect remains for United States team
While Kewell challenged the perception of American football history, he acknowledged that the current United States side presents a significant challenge.
The co hosts were impressive in their opening victory over Paraguay and demonstrated attacking quality throughout the match.
Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie were among the standout performers as the Americans controlled large portions of the contest.
Kewell highlighted the positioning and movement of the United States midfield as one of the factors Australia must address.
He believes the Socceroos can compete successfully if they maintain defensive structure while showing greater attacking intent than Paraguay managed.
Australia seeking another upset
Australia enters the match with confidence after defeating Turkiye 2 to 0 in one of the early surprises of the tournament.
The victory placed the Socceroos in a strong position within Group D and increased hopes of progressing to the knockout rounds.
Coach Tony Popovic's side displayed discipline, organisation and clinical finishing during the win, qualities they will need again against the host nation.
Kewell believes Australia's pace and physicality could create problems for the United States if used effectively.
He suggested that putting pressure on the American defence could force the hosts to become more cautious and reduce their attacking threat.
Massive Group D clash awaits
The meeting between Australia and the United States now carries even greater significance after both teams won their opening matches.
A second victory would place either side in a commanding position to qualify for the next stage of the tournament.
The build up has already produced plenty of discussion away from the field, but attention will soon turn to the action in Seattle.
For Australia, the focus remains on continuing its impressive start and proving that the Socceroos belong among the strongest teams in the competition. For the United States, the challenge is to justify the confidence shown by some of its supporters and pundits.