Arnold delighted with ‘incredible’ Dallas experience following Mexico draw

Subway Socceroos coach Graham said the Dallas trip has been a valuable experience for the team, getting a taste of what may be to come in the FIFA World Cup 2026 USA, Canada, and Mexico.

It was a disappointing conclusion to Sunday’s match for Australia, who gave up a two-goal lead to draw with their highly-ranked Mexican opponents at AT&T Stadium.

Harry Souttar gave the side a first-half lead before Martin Boyle notched a second, converting from the spot on his return to the Socceroos.

A couple of glaring errors at the back from Australia showed Mexico a path back into the game, however, Arnold was ‘very happy’ overall with his team’s performance.

“We played against a very good side here, and a couple of mistakes cost us the goals, but at the end of the day, I thought the boys did exceptionally well,” he said.  

“We’ve got things to improve on, and it’s these types of games where you learn your lessons.”

Debutant Cameron Burgess played in the heart of a new-look defence for Australia, with Arnold praising the centreback’s display.

Sam Silvera was another to step onto the pitch for the Socceroos for the first time, coming on for the final 20 minutes in Dallas.

Arnold also singled out Kye Rowles’ game as the usual central defender slotted in adeptly at left-back against the pacey threat of Mexico’s Uriel Antuna.

“I thought he [Burgess] did very well. It’s his first international and the first time he’s ever played beside Harry Souttar or any of the other boys, so I thought he fitted in very well.” Arnold said.

Arnold though, was keen to look at the week holistically, emphasising the importance of this endeavour for the years to come.

“The whole week has been incredible, and bringing the young players in, giving them an opportunity with the Socceroos and being in America to sample what we’re going to get in a couple of years’ time,” he said.

"To play against Mexico - the 12th-ranked team in the world, I thought we did very well, but there’s things to improve on, and that’s giving away silly goals.”