FIFA Ranking #23 · 6 World Cups · Best: Round of 16
The Socceroos' 2022 campaign — beating Tunisia and Denmark in the group stage before a 2–1 defeat to Argentina in the Round of 16 — made them one of the tournament's great stories. Under Popovic, they carry that belief into Group D with European-based players giving them quality throughout.
Group D opponents
Mathew Ryan
⭐ Star PlayerReal Sociedad
Goalkeeper
80
Caps
0
Goals
33
Age
Australia's world-class goalkeeper who was a key presence throughout the 2022 World Cup run — one of the most experienced Socceroos in history.
Mitchell Duke
FC Machida Zelvia
Striker
45
Caps
16
Goals
34
Age
Powerful target striker who scored the historic opener against Denmark in 2022 — Australia's most reliable goal threat at centre-forward.
Harry Souttar
Leicester City
Centre-Back
30
Caps
5
Goals
26
Age
Leicester's commanding 6'6" centre-back who is one of Australia's best-ever defenders — aerial dominance personified.
Ajdin Hrustic
Hellas Verona
Midfielder
40
Caps
8
Goals
28
Age
Serie A midfielder with excellent technique and set-piece quality who brings European experience to Australia's midfield.
All times local to venue. Group stage results determine knockout seedings.
Turkey
FIFA #30
BC Place
Vancouver, Canada
Paraguay
FIFA #50
Levi's Stadium
San Francisco, CA
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6
Appearances
0
Titles
#23
FIFA Rank
Round of 16
Best Result
Australia switched to the Asian Football Confederation in 2005 and immediately reached the 2006 World Cup Round of 16, losing to Italy only through a controversial late penalty. Their 2022 run was even more memorable — defeating Tunisia and Denmark in the group stage to set up a Round of 16 clash with Argentina, eventually losing 2–1 in normal time.
Formation
Wide attacking triangle, pressing high up the pitch
Head Coach
Tony Popovic
Australian · 4-3-3
Tony Popovic leads Australia into the 2026 World Cup with a 4-3-3 system built around the squad's strengths.
The three teams Australia must face in the group stage.
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