Socceroos manager Popovic consults rugby expert Jones prior to World Cup

Australian national team coach Tony Popovic has sought guidance from ex Wallabies and England rugby leader Eddie Jones before the World Cup, picking up substantial insights from their discussions.

The Socceroos head coach mentioned he intends to consult with coaches from Australian Rules football regarding strategies for handling the required hydration pauses during the tournament scheduled from 11 June to 19 July in North America.

These breaks will effectively divide the matches into four segments rather than two periods, mirroring the format of Australias leading spectator sport.

"I shared a breakfast session with Eddie Jones while in Tokyo, and it proved quite enlightening," Popovic shared with Australian press on Wednesday, referring to the present Japan rugby coach.

"Having led teams from at least four countries, secured a World Cup victory, and managed several five to six week training camps, his perspectives were highly useful.

"He shared openly and provided extensive details on lessons drawn from past errors, such as managing family and friends near the training base, or ensuring sufficient rest periods for both staff and athletes."

Jones guided Australia to the 2003 Rugby World Cup final and served as a consultant for South Africa during their triumph in the event four years afterwards.

Popovic featured as a player in the Guus Hiddink managed Australian side that reached the knockout stage at the 2006 World Cup in Germany.

This marks his debut World Cup at the helm, and he is keen to explore effective ways to navigate the hydration intervals that might disrupt the flow of play.

"Dividing into four quarters changes dynamics significantly, so we must develop various concepts and approaches," he noted, highlighting the potential benefits from conversations with Australian Rules coaches.

"They employ tactics post quarter, detailing actions in the initial three or four minutes to gain control and reestablish game tempo.

"We are examining such elements to identify opportunities for outperforming rivals and enhancing our overall performance."

Australia, participating in their sixth consecutive World Cup, are placed in Group D alongside co hosts the United States, Paraguay, and an upcoming European qualifier.