Socceroos manager Tony Popovic is staying tight-lipped on his preferred starting side for the June 14 World Cup opener against Turkey after Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe impressed during the 1-1 draw with Switzerland.

Irankunda hit the crossbar and stayed involved even when Australia lacked possession for long spells, while Metcalfe provided the assist for debutant Tete Yengi to level the score in the second period.

Popovic viewed the friendly against a strong Swiss side as perfect preparation ahead of the tournament.

"The conditions were warm and the pitch was sticky, giving us valuable experience against a top opponent," he told Paramount+.

"We needed to navigate the opening phase without conceding further, and in the second half we enjoyed a strong spell where we performed well for about 20 minutes."

Metcalfe entered at right wing after the break in place of fellow debutant Cristian Volpato following a tough first half in which Australia trailed.

Popovic expressed satisfaction that Yengi found the net after the new attacking trio struggled initially to connect.

"Our front three were playing together for the first time and looked somewhat disconnected both on and off the ball, yet they improved after the interval," he noted.

"Nestor improved, Tete improved, and Connor performed strongly off the bench, allowing us to build attacks more effectively and choose better options."

Metcalfe set up Yengi via a deep run finished by a long pass from Cam Burgess, another substitute vying with 18-year-old Lucas Herrington for the left centre-back role.

Popovic avoided confirming his lineup after the match.

"These matches contribute to player development," he said.

"Avoiding injuries was the key outcome, and we stayed competitive while scoring a fine goal, leaving me content and focused on next week."

Metcalfe vies with Irankunda and Mat Leckie, who featured last week versus Mexico, for the wide positions in Popovic's system behind striker Mo Toure, with Volpato, Awer Mabil, Ajdin Hrustic and Nishan Velupillay also options.

Aiden O'Neill and Jackson Irvine lead the race for central midfield spots, while Jordy Bos and Jacob Italiano are expected at fullback, Alessandro Circati and Harry Souttar in defence and Maty Ryan in goal.

Yengi, who tapped in against Switzerland before a sparse San Diego crowd, remains a bench option.

"It feels incredible to be on the pitch one week before the World Cup," Yengi said.

"Such moments are the stuff of dreams, and I am thankful for the chance while hoping we approach the tournament with optimism."

He added that facing Switzerland gave the squad a tough test, leaving the Socceroos ready for Group D and their opening match against Turkey in Vancouver at 2pm on Sunday 14 June (9pm Saturday 13 June local time).