CACERES EAGER TO LEAD SYDNEY FC
Fresh from his dramatic stoppage-time equaliser in the Sydney derby, Socceroos midfielder Anthony Caceres is set to deliver once again as Sydney FC prepares for the knockout stages of the AFC Champions League Two.
The Sky Blues will host Thai side Bangkok United at Allianz Stadium on Wednesday night for the first leg of their round-of-16 clash. With Caceres in career-best form, Sydney will be looking to their midfield maestro to dictate play in yet another high-stakes encounter.
Caceres was instrumental in Saturday night’s thrilling 3-3 draw against the Western Sydney Wanderers, not only scoring late to salvage a point but also providing the crucial pass for Patryk Klimala’s goal. His commanding performance was another reminder of why, at 32, he finally earned his long-awaited Socceroos debut in November during FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.
“It was an extremely satisfying and relieving moment,” Caceres said of his international breakthrough.
“It was like an itch I couldn’t scratch. The question was in the back of my mind about whether that chance would come. Thankfully, Tony Popovic gave me the opportunity, and I’m eternally grateful for it. Representing my country is the highlight of my career.”
With next month’s matches against Indonesia and China on the horizon, Caceres is determined to maintain his form and secure a place in the Socceroos squad.
“For me, consistency is key,” he added. “I’ve learned how to prepare, stay fit, and perform at my best each week. But most importantly, I’m happy, enjoying my football, and playing for my home city in front of my family.”
Now one of Sydney FC’s senior figures, Caceres embraces his leadership role both on and off the pitch.
“I feel at home at this club, and I take great responsibility in leading the team,” he said. “That responsibility brings out the best in me, and I’m really enjoying my football right now.”
As Sydney FC pushes for continental success, Caceres’ influence in midfield will be crucial. With his confidence soaring, the Sky Blues will hope their in-form playmaker can guide them to victory against Bangkok United and beyond.