In this episode of Green & Gold FC, Graham and Alex look back on the Socceroos’ World Cup campaign and ask whether Tony Popovic is the right man to lead Australia into the next cycle.

The discussion begins with Alex’s case for the prosecution: Australia’s lack of attacking structure, questionable selections, the handling of key players including Cristian Volpato and Alex Robertson, and whether Popovic’s club-management approach translates to international football. They also examine Australia’s struggles at set pieces under Mile Jedinak.

Graham and Alex then run through the latest Australian football news, including Patrick Beach and Paul Okon-Engstler’s moves overseas, reported Socceroos friendlies against Brazil and Uruguay, and the future of Canberra United following new ownership of the women’s side.

From there, they break down the opening Australia Cup results, with Preston Lions’ comeback against Newcastle Jets, Perth Glory’s loss to Queensland Lions, Sydney FC’s young talent and the wider rise of NPL clubs. They also discuss the difficult balance between dealing with offensive supporter behaviour and avoiding over-policing football crowds.

Finally, Graham is joined by Angelo Picca to discuss the possible return of Official OnTheBall_Live. They talk through the show’s legacy, its plans for a new mainstream television home, the potential return of familiar faces, and why Australian football needs more hard-hitting media coverage.

A wide-ranging episode on the Socceroos, the Australia Cup, A-League ownership, football media and the future of Australian football.