Dream machine Mabil’s World Cup wish list

Awer Mabil’s ever-expanding bucket list has a new entry - scoring a goal at the FIFA World Cup.

FC Midtjylland vs Atalanta BC: Group D - UEFA Champions League

Awer Mabil of FC Midtjylland Source: FrontzoneSport

The Socceroos winger has already ticked off playing and scoring in the UEFA Champions League this season for his Danish club team Midtjylland.

Now, with Australia heading into camp next week in Dubai ahead of June’s Kuwait qualification hub, he’s elevating his ambitions to another lofty level.

With 14 caps and an AFC Asian Cup adventure already chalked up, Mabil, 25, has Qatar 2022 in his crosshairs.

“My next dream is to play and score in a World Cup, then I’ll be a happy kid,” said the 25-year-old speed machine.
“I’ve achieved my goal of playing and also getting on the scoresheet in the Champions League.

“To do the same at the World Cup would be amazing.

“It’s the ultimate honour to play for your country and a World Cup is the biggest destination.”

Though Kuwait, Nepal, Taiwan and Jordon appear as routine obstacles en route to the final phase of qualifying, Mabil insists “mental preparation” will be key to prevent any missteps for the Group B leaders in the Middle East.

“We haven’t seen each other for 18 months - and it’s all down to doing our job and to continue from where we left off (four wins from four games),” added Mabil.

“When I put on the green and gold jersey again it’s going to be new energy and it’s something I’m so excited about. We all feel the same way.”

Mabil describes coach Graham Arnold as “a father figure to most of us” in a tribute to the togetherness that still exists within the squad, despite the long hiatus.

“The vibe and the environment he creates ... you can always do amazing things,” he added.

“That’s what I’m excited about - the magic that will happen in this camp.
“I feel everything will fall into place.

“Only a couple of years ago I was breaking through but now there’s a new generation coming again I am always there to give my honest view if they need any advice.”

Mabil faces a cliffhanger last day of the Superliga season clash on Monday against AGF Arhuus, with defending champions Midtjylland a point adrift of leaders Brondby, who take on Nordsjaelland.


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2 min read
Published 22 May 2021 4:08pm
By Dave Lewis

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