Striker Mo Touré Misses Training Ahead of World Cup Opener
Oakland, California – Australian national team striker Mo Touré was absent from a scheduled training session on Wednesday evening due to illness, casting doubt on his availability for the team's FIFA World Cup opening match against Turkey on Saturday.
Touré was present at the training ground for a team photo but did not participate in the session.
Media were permitted to observe only the first 15 minutes of training, during which Touré was not seen. According to sources close to the player, he was isolated from teammates due to an illness and was expected to return to training the following day (Thursday local time).
Touré has a history of muscle injuries, including a groin injury in February 2024 that sidelined him for over a month. He has previously stated that he follows an injury-prevention training regimen. The team has not issued an official statement regarding Touré's fitness or condition.
Player Comments
Fullback Jordy Bos stated that he did not notice Touré's absence until midway through the session but acknowledged Touré's importance to the team. He noted that other players can play the striker position.
Defender Milos Degenek said he did not notice Touré's absence, explaining that the session was split between defenders and forwards. He stated that he expected Touré to be present at the next training session and expressed confidence in the team's fitness and mentality for the upcoming match.
Replacement Options
If Touré is unable to play, coach Tony Popovic has four primary replacement options:
- Tete Yengi: The only other specialist striker in the squad, with two international appearances. He scored against Switzerland in his first national team appearance.
- Mathew Leckie: Primarily a winger or midfielder, but could fill the striker role as a pressing forward.
- Nishan Velupillay: A winger or creative midfielder who has experience playing as a striker for his club, Melbourne Victory.
- Nestory Irankunda: A winger or creative midfielder who can also play as a lone forward.
Under tournament rules, the team can bring in an injury replacement for Touré if he sustains a serious injury no less than 24 hours before the match against Turkey.