Australian FA CEO: New Coach’s Task is to Secure World Cup Qualification; Popovic Expresses Confidence in Achieving It

Following the announcement by the Australian Football Association (AFA) that Popovic has become the new head coach of the Australian national team, AFA CEO James Johnson revealed that Popovic’s task is to lead the team to secure qualification for the World Cup. Popovic has also expressed confidence in fulfilling this task.

James Johnson stated that he was pleased with Popovic accepting the AFA’s invitation, “He possesses strong leadership skills and strategic thinking in football, and has a deep understanding of the AFA, making him the right choice as our team’s head coach. We hope his arrival will continue to drive Australia’s success on the world stage.”

James Johnson further disclosed that hiring Popovic was aimed at securing World Cup qualification, “We quickly determined the new coach because we are in a critical period of the top 18 matches. Our goal is to qualify for the World Cup, and Popovic’s task is to lead the team through the Asian stage of the World Cup qualifiers. We believe that under his leadership, we can once again stand on the World Cup stage.”

Popovic expressed his happiness over being invited by the AFA to serve as the team’s head coach, “I thank them for their trust, which will motivate me to work hard. For me and my family, it is an honor, and I will not let down everyone’s trust.”

Subsequently, Popovic affirmed his confidence in leading the team to secure a spot in the World Cup, “I fully understand my responsibilities and the expectations from the outside. Australia has a solid fan base, and I will not disappoint their expectations. My team and I have the confidence, and we will work together to improve, develop, and continue Australia’s success on the world stage.”