Australia 2026
Coach Tony Popovic, appointed in 2024, inherits Graham Arnold's foundational work and a squad chemistry that has anchored recent AFC campaigns.
Australia returned to the World Cup in 2026, looking to improve on their 2022 knockout-round exit. Under Tony Popovic, they were ready to write the next chapter.
Australia qualified for their sixth consecutive World Cup, a record run for the Socceroos. After the 2022 Round of 16 appearance the first since 2006 the Socceroos enter 2026 with a hybrid squad: A-League products, European-based veterans, and a new generation coming through.
Coach Tony Popovic, appointed in 2024, inherits Graham Arnold's foundational work and a squad chemistry that has anchored recent AFC campaigns.
1won2drawn1lost
3scored3conceded
Failed to score in 2 of 4 matches just 1 win in 4 matches.
Australia experienced an inconsistent group stage, mixing moments of promise with frustrating setbacks. In the knockout rounds, they were eliminated by Egypt on penalties in the Round of 32. The agony of a penalty shootout defeat against Egypt brought a cruel end to a campaign that had promised so much more.
Conceded in only 2 of 4 matches
The standout performer for Australia at the 2026 World Cup.
Connor Metcalfe led Australia's attack with 1 goal at the 2026 World Cup. Shared the top-scorer honours with Irankunda, both with 1.
Popovic, a former Socceroo defender and long-time Western Sydney Wanderers coach, has brought a direct, counter-attacking identity to the Australian game. His appointment in 2024 came as Graham Arnold stepped down after seven years. Leading Australia at his first World Cup just 1 win in 4 under Popovic.