World Cup 2026: Australia eye surprise run in balanced Group D

Australia head into the 2026 World Cup with renewed belief that they can once again make an impact on the global stage, as Tony Popovic’s side prepare for a competitive but open Group D.

The Socceroos have been drawn alongside the United States, Paraguay and Türkiye, a group widely seen as balanced, offering realistic opportunities for all four teams to fight for progression to the knockout rounds.

Australia’s recent form has been mixed, with inconsistency continuing to define their performances in major tournaments. At the latest Asian Cup, they fell at the quarter-final stage for a second consecutive edition, underlining the work still needed to compete consistently at the highest level.

Despite that, there is optimism surrounding their World Cup campaign. Having reached the Round of 16 in 2022, Australia will aim to build on that progress and establish themselves again as a difficult side to beat in tournament football.

They secured qualification through the Asian qualifiers, finishing second in their group with 19 points, sealing their place in North America with a hard-fought win over Saudi Arabia on the final matchday.

Head coach Tony Popovic, who took charge in 2024, has been tasked with bringing stability and organisation to the squad. While his tenure has yet to produce major breakthroughs, his experience in club football is seen as a foundation for building a competitive national team.

At the heart of the squad is captain and goalkeeper Mathew Ryan, the most experienced player in the team with over 100 international appearances. His leadership and composure remain crucial, particularly in tight group-stage matches where small margins could decide qualification.

Australia begin their campaign against Türkiye before facing co-hosts the United States, followed by a decisive final group match against Paraguay. With no dominant favourite in the group, the Socceroos believe they have a genuine chance to progress if they maintain consistency and take their opportunities.

Australia’s FIFA World Cup 2026 squad

Goalkeepers: Patrick Beach, Paul Izzo, Mathew Ryan

Defenders: Aziz Behich, Jordan Bos, Cameron Burgess, Alessandro Circati, Milos Degenek, Jason Geria, Lucas Herrington, Jacob Italiano, Harry Souttar, Kai Trewin

Midfielders: Cameron Devlin, Ajdin Hrustic, Jackson Irvine, Connor Metcalfe, Paul Okon-Engstler, Aiden O’Neill

Forwards: Nestory Irankunda, Mathew Leckie, Awer Mabil, Mohamed Toure, Nishan Velupillay, Cristian Volpato, Tete Yengi