Mat Ryan is one of the few footballers who can claim to have played in three FIFA World Cups. The 34-year-old Australian goalkeeper is about to lead his country in what will be his fourth finals this summer. In this exclusive interview with Flashscore, the captain says both he and his team are more motivated than ever to shine on the biggest stage of all.
This is the second part of our conversation with Mat Ryan. In part one, he discussed his time in the Premier League and how it compares to Spain’s LaLiga, where he currently plays for Levante.
Mat Ryan makes a pass (SAEED KHAN / AFP, Flashscore)
Today we are joined by Mathew Ryan, one of Australia’s greatest ever goalkeepers. Mat, you became the youngest Socceroo to reach 100 caps and only the third Australian to achieve that milestone. You’ve played over 40 World Cup qualifying matches and appeared in 10 World Cup games across three tournaments, captained your country on 42 occasions, and kept 39 clean sheets in your first 100 matches for Australia. Welcome!
“Thanks. In moments like this, when someone goes through your career like that… I didn’t even know many of those stats, you know? So it’s a pinch-me moment to hear it.”
You’ve already played in three World Cups (2014, 2018, 2022). What would a fourth this year in the United States, Canada, and Mexico mean to you?
“It still means everything to me. Every chance I get to live the day-to-day life of a professional footballer is a dream come true. And having been to three World Cups and potentially a fourth surpasses any dream I had as a child, growing up unsure if I’d ever be good enough to go pro, play in Europe, or represent my country.
Player statistics (Flashscore)
“Hearing those stats, you don’t usually stop to reflect because there’s always another game, another tournament, something else to focus on. So it’s nice to hear some of those numbers.”
As captain, from your perspective, what’s most important before a World Cup: keeping the group calm or seeking motivation?
“I think a big characteristic of a leader is output. By that I mean what you do on the pitch. When you face a situation where people might think, ‘There’s no way he can get out of this,’ and you manage to succeed, play a good match, or make a great play… To me, that’s the best example of leadership.
“Of course, there are many other things. You have to set an example, be punctual, show up on time, not cause problems or anything like that. But in the end, I want to win games, and I’ll use all my experience to help my team do that. So whether I wear the armband or not, I don’t think it changes who I am as a person or a player. I always try to do the same.”
Australia’s manager Tony Popovic has led the Socceroos to another World Cup. What has changed most in the team since he took charge in 2024?
“Of course, every coach brings different tactics and demands different things about how we should play. So there’s a big difference in the tactical aspect of our game. Now, sometimes we play with a back four, sometimes with five. And with the ball, he’s worked hard on making us more comfortable and playing attractive, modern football.
“He also has a very clear idea of creating a winning environment. He’s very professional in making sure we have everything we need, but he’s also very demanding, pushing us to dedicate all our time to performing at the highest level.
Australia’s head coach
