Australia
FIFA World Cup 2026 Team Profile
Tony Popovic
Head Coach
4-3-3
Formation
0
Titles
6
Appearances
Overview
Australia are back at another World Cup under a new coach, building on the 2022 round-of-16 appearance. The Socceroos have a settled squad and a clear playing identity, with several Premier League and European-based players leading the line.
Road to World Cup 2026
Australia advanced through the AFC qualification playoffs, beating several stronger Asian sides on the way to a sixth appearance.
Qualification: AFC qualification
Key Players to Watch
- Mathew Leckie
- Aaron Mooy
- Craig Goodwin
- Harry Souttar
Strengths
Physicality, aerial threat, and a strong defensive record under Tony Popovic. Set pieces are a clear weapon.
Weaknesses
Squad depth in attacking positions. The team can struggle to create chances against deep defensive blocks.
World Cup 2026 Chances
Reaching the round of 32 in a 48-team tournament is the realistic target. The squad has the quality to compete in any group.
Historical World Cup Performance
Six prior appearances, with a round-of-16 finish in 2006 as the high point. The 2022 appearance ended with a narrow loss to Argentina in the round of 16.
Best result: Round of 16 (2006)
Last World Cup: Round of 16 (2022)
Match Schedule
Australia vs Türkiye
USA vs Australia
Paraguay vs Australia