Alex Nunes and Max Cooper have played key roles for the Young Socceroos at the successful 2026 ASEAN U-19 Boys Championship
Nunes played two out of the four Young Socceroos matches, coming off of the bench in the first game against the Phillipines, scoring a penalty before grabbing an assist in a 10-0 win. He started the second match, scoring in a 2-2 draw against Cambodia.
“My first camp was such a great experience, to be able to see where I stand with the best players in Asia for my age group has really helped me put my level into perspective. The level in training was very high and super competitive as well because everyone is trying to prove themselves to the coaching staff.”
Said Nunes, 19.
“One of my goals at the start of the season was to represent my national team and to have achieved that I feel very proud. To win a trophy with the national team is another thing that I am really proud of.”
Max Cooper, 19, started in the 2-2 draw with Cambodia, with a stomach bug ruling him out for part of the tournament.
“It feels great to represent your country, it’s what you dream of as a kid. Having your last name of the back of an Australian jersey is one of the highest honours in football.”
Said Cooper.
“To be able to win a trophy was really special and even though I didn’t play as much as I would have liked it’s still a really proud moment for me.”
