Paul Okon-Engstler
KOE
Center Midfielder
Deep-Lying Playmaker
Jan 24, 2005 (21)
Left
6'0"
185 lb
Features with Socceroos
Okon-Engstler was in the starting lineup for Tuesday's clash against Brazil, fully fit to feature moving forward, according to the national team.
Analysis: Okon-Engstler had been left out of Koln's traveling squad for the match against Hamburger SV for sporting reasons rather than injury, an absence that had opened up more time for Luca Waldschmidt. This international start confirms he is fully healthy, positioning him to push for a return to Koln's lineup once the international break concludes.
Left out of traveling squad
Okon-Engstler is out for Saturday's match against Hamburger after not being picked for the traveling squad, but is not dealing with an injury, according to Marc Merten of Geissblog Koln.
Analysis: Okon-Engstler has not been selected for the team for Saturday despite a starting role in two of the three games to open the season. However, it is not due to injury, as he has instead been left out for sporting reasons, as other players get into the team. This should open up some more time for Luca Waldschmidt, although Okon-Engstler will likely return to the team sheet soon.
Signs with FC Koln
Okon-Engstler signed with FC Koln through June 2030 after departing Sydney FC, the club announced.
Analysis: Okon-Engstler was an ever-present for Australia at this summer's World Cup, starting three matches during the tournament. Born in Belgium, the midfielder joined Club Brugge's academy at 14 before moving to Benfica, where he featured for the reserve side and in the UEFA Youth League, and returned to Sydney FC last summer, making 27 A-League appearances along with three cup matches. Okon-Engstler is expected to add depth to FC Koln's central midfield as he continues his development.
Minimal impact vs. USMNT
Okon registered one cross (one accurate) and one corner in Friday's 2-0 loss against USA. He added four clearances and two tackles won.
Analysis: Okon earned most of his value due to his defensive stats, which shouldn't be surprising since he operated as a holding midfielder in a game where Australia looked overmatched. His role isn't likely to change in the group-stage finale against Paraguay on June 25, so he won't have much upside across most formats.
Sets up opener
Okon assisted once to go with one cross (zero accurate) and two chances created in Sunday's 2-0 victory versus Turkey.
Analysis: Okon set up Nestory Irankunda's incredible goal in the 75th minute. Starting as a defensive midfielder, Okon passed with an 81 percent success rate. He also demonstrated exceptional defensive movement in Australia's low block, recording five clearances, three interceptions, three tackles, and two blocks. This match marked Okon's first World Cup appearance. Additionally, he now registered the most defensive contributions by a midfielder in this World Cup so far.
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