Socceroos Announce Revamped Squad for Critical World Cup Qualifiers

Australia faces must-win matches against Indonesia and China to secure automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Coach Tony Popovic has named a 26-man squad with six uncapped players, including defenders Kai Trewin, Alex Grant, and Nectarios Triantis, to address injuries to key players Harry Souttar and Hayden Matthews.
Veteran striker Adam Taggart has been recalled, while notable omissions include Mitch Duke and teenage standout Nestory Irankunda, despite his strong form in Switzerland.
Daniel Arzani, previously criticized by Popovic for inconsistent performances, has been handed a lifeline and included in the squad.
Australia sits second in Group C, with four teams, including Indonesia and China, just one point behind, making these matches pivotal for securing an automatic qualification spot.
If automatic qualification is not achieved, the Socceroos could still reach the World Cup through additional qualifying rounds and playoffs.