Australia compete in Group Four of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Record:
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AFC Asian Cup winners in 2015
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Best World Cup finish: Round of 16 in 2006 and 2022
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FIFA ranking: 27
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Last World Cup appearance: 2022
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Nickname: Socceroos
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Top clubs: Sydney FC, Melbourne Victory, Central Coast Mariners
Qualification: With a 2–1 win over Saudi Arabia in June 2025, Australia secured their place at the World Cup for a sixth consecutive time, a record for the island continent. It is also the first time since 2014 they have qualified directly, without going through a play-off.
Coach: Tony Popovic was a backup defender in the Australian squad at the 2006 World Cup. Since taking charge of the Socceroos in 2024, the 52-year-old has overseen a significant squad overhaul and remained unbeaten in eight qualifying matches. Following a run of three friendly defeats in autumn, the team recovered well in spring with wins over Cameroon (1–0) and Curaçao (5–1).
Star player: At 34, goalkeeper Mathew Ryan is preparing for his fourth World Cup, this time in North America. After serving as backup at Roma and then Lens last season, Ryan reclaimed a starting role this season at Levante in Spain, where he was instrumental in coach Luis Castro's side avoiding relegation, recording nine clean sheets.
Ambitions: In what appears a more favourable group than in 2022 — when Australia lost to France but reached the knockout round by beating Tunisia and Denmark — the Socceroos can again aim to progress. They will face Turkey, the United States, and Paraguay before any potential last-16 tie.