Connor Metcalfe scores second goal for Australia vs Türkiye in Group D, North America; boosts Socceroos’ Group D hopes
World Cup stars of the Bundesliga: St. Pauli’s Connor Metcalfe | Bundesliga
World Cup stars of the Bundesliga: St. Pauli’s Connor Metcalfe
St. Pauli’s 26-year-old midfielder Connor Metcalfe burst onto the FIFA World Cup stage with a brilliant long-range effort in Australia’s Group D opener against Türkiye and will look to continue to inspire the Socceroos in North America.
Name: Connor Metcalfe Club: St. Pauli Nation: Australia International debut: 7 June 2021 Caps: 37 International goals: 2
Stats correct as of 14 June 2026
Metcalfe did not have the easiest of seasons in Germany. He saw his playing time limited after an injury-ravaged previous campaign, with a knee issue also forcing him out in January and February.
The midfielder did gain a place in the starting line-up at a crucial time though, making two of his three Bundesliga starts in the final two weeks of the season, as St. Pauli battled in vain to secure their top-flight survival.
Watch: Metcalfe and Irvine play defend the goal
What he brings to the national team
Having scored in a 2-1 win against Saudi Arabia in June 2025 that saw Australia book their place in North America, and playing a part in all ten of their friendly matches since, it was no surprise to see Tony Popovic select Metcalfe for their opening Group D tie against Türkiye .
The bustling midfielder repaid that faith in spades by bounding forward and slotting in a superb second goal from 20 yards out.
“He’s got a good football brain, is a hard tackler and is able to set up his teammates or get into dangerous positions himself." - Former St. Pauli coach Alexander Blessin
“We’ve probably exposed Connor Metcalfe a lot more than any other player with a similar situation. But he’s a really robust young man, and he’s been able to handle it really well." - Australia head coach Tony Popovic
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Ones to watch in Group D
St. Pauli: Fabian Hürzeler’s record-chasers
Which Bundesliga players were in action at the Asian Cup?
Ones to watch in Groups B and C
World Cup stars: St. Pauli’s Jackson Irvine
Metcalfe and Irvine play defend the goal 🇦🇺
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