Max Balard: I’m eager to show what I can do
CommBank Socceroos midfielder Max Balard said that he was eager to keep building on his success after scoring on his international debut last time out.
The 24-year-old reflected on his special moment in Canberra just over one month ago.
“For me, personally, it was a very special window,” Balard said.
“Getting my first cap meant a lot to me, and obviously scoring on debut was something I couldn't have even imagined. So it was a very special moment.
“For the squad itself, it was very important as well. Beating New Zealand - who have great players and are a great nation - and showing what we can do, and that we're ready for what's to come.”
The team are based in Montreal for the first part of the window, a place where French is commonly spoken. It’s given the bilingual Balard a chance to test out his knowledge of his parents’ language – one that his teammates certainly appreciate.
“I think the weather might get a bit worse as the week goes on, but so far, it's been a really nice vibe,” he said.
“There are some French speakers here in Montreal as well. A few of the boys already told me they want me to come with them to the coffee shop, get some orders done for them, and stuff like that! It’s been interesting.”
Australia are now unbeaten in ten games under Tony Popovic. While the games against Canada and USA will present challenges, Balard said that the aim is very much to keep that unbeaten streak alive.
“To win these games is very special,” he expressed.
“Whenever you wear the Australian jersey, you're there to win, to represent your country and do your best. So for sure, we're going out there to keep the streak unbeaten.
“We’ve done that so far, and showed that against New Zealand. Now it's just time to show it against Canada and US.”
As joint hosts, the Socceroos' opponents for the window will go into the game with their own goals in mind.
Balard said that Popovic’s men will be focused on the ultimate task of preparing for the global finals next year.
“For them, it's practice for the World Cup, and obviously for us too,” he said.
“It's also a chance to improve our position in the world rankings, to get a better pot.
“I just want to keep building on it. I'm eager to show what I can do, eager to play more games and get more caps and hopefully do well for the national team.”