Australia Squad for World Cup 2026: A Confident Core Targets Another Knockout Stage Run

Who Will Make the Cut for Australia at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in USA, Mexico and Canada?

For a nation once seen as footballing outsiders, Australia has certainly earned its seat at the top table. The Socceroos will head to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada not as minnows or wide-eyed debutants, but as experienced campaigners looking to build on their recent tournament successes.

In 2022, Australia surprised many by reaching the Round of 16 after holding their nerve in a challenging group alongside France, Denmark, and Tunisia. They showed their grit with two crucial wins before narrowly falling to eventual champions Argentina in a dramatic knockout clash. Now, four years on, there’s a growing sense that they might just be ready to take another step forward.

The Socceroos have already locked in qualification for the 2026 tournament alongside Asian rivals Japan, South Korea, Iran, and Uzbekistan, and as the final preparations begin, the big question is: which players will make the journey across the Pacific to represent Australia on the world stage?

Mathew Ryan Still the Man Between the Sticks

Mathew Ryan-Australia-202402

Let’s start at the back, where Mathew Ryan remains the undisputed number one. The veteran goalkeeper, now with AS Roma, brings three World Cup campaigns’ worth of experience and the calm assurance of someone who’s seen it all. At 34 when the tournament kicks off, Ryan’s leadership and composure will be invaluable for Tony Popovic’s squad.

Behind him, Joe Gauci is the next in line. The 24-year-old impressed during his loan spell at Barnsley and could soon be the main man at Aston Villa, especially if Emiliano Martinez moves on. His development is being closely watched, and he’s likely to serve as Ryan’s understudy in North America.

Other capable options like Tom Glover (Middlesbrough), Paul Izzo (Randers FC), and Patrick Beach (Melbourne City) provide plenty of cover, but unless there’s an injury or a massive form shift, Ryan remains Popovic’s go-to guy.

Australia’s Backline: Youth and Experience in Balance

Australia v Japan – 2026 FIFA World Cup Round Three AFC Asian Qualifier

Australia’s defence is quietly one of the most balanced parts of their squad. Harry Souttar leads the way. The towering Leicester City centre-back is not only a rock at the back but also a genuine goal threat from set pieces—something that could be crucial against stronger opposition.

Partnering Souttar in what will likely be a back-three setup are Cameron Burgess (Swansea) and Alessandro Circati (Parma). Circati, in particular, has made huge strides in Italy and brings a tactical intelligence that suits international play.

Veteran Aziz Behich will continue to offer experience and width on the left flank, while Lewis Miller (Hibernian) and Ryan Strain (Dundee United) are good options on the right. Popovic’s preferred system allows both to push high and provide crucial support in attack.

Also in the mix are exciting youngsters like Jordan Bos (Westerlo) and Kasey Bos (Mainz), along with Jake Girdwood-Reich, Jacob Farrell, and Kai Trewin—all of whom are fighting for spots in the final 26.

Midfield Engine: Teague, O’Neill, and More

Australia v Japan – 2026 FIFA World Cup Round Three AFC Asian Qualifier

If there’s one area of the pitch where Australia has real depth, it’s midfield. Ryan Teague has emerged as a pivotal player since his move to KV Mechelen. Calm under pressure and tidy on the ball, Teague is likely to be one of the first names on the team sheet.

Next to him, Aiden O’Neill (New York City FC) provides defensive solidity and smart distribution, giving the Socceroos a reliable midfield base to build from. Together, they form the heartbeat of this side.

Further up the pitch, Riley McGree (Middlesbrough) adds a touch of flair and unpredictability. He’s been a consistent performer in the Championship and brings creativity that Australia will need against more compact teams.

Don’t overlook Patrick Yazbek (Nashville) or Anthony Caceres (Macarthur FC) either—they’re capable of breaking lines and adding energy in midfield. And then there’s the wildcard: Nestory Irankunda, now with Bayern Munich. If the teenage sensation breaks through in Germany, he could add star power and pace to the Aussie midfield.

Others in contention include Alex Robertson (Cardiff City) and Ethan Alagich (Adelaide United), both offering future potential with growing experience.

Attack: All Eyes on Duke and Boyle

Up front, Mitchell Duke continues to be Australia’s battering ram. Now playing for Machida Zelvia in Japan, Duke remains a fan favourite thanks to his tireless work rate and timely goals, including his strike against Tunisia in 2022.

Beside him, Martin Boyle (Hibernian) is one of the most dangerous weapons in Popovic’s arsenal. Quick, intelligent, and a natural finisher, Boyle is expected to be a key outlet on the wing. His experience and technique will be critical in unlocking tight games.

Emerging talents like Connor Metcalfe (St. Pauli) and Marco Tilio (Celtic) are pushing hard for starting roles, while Daniel Arzani, once Australia’s golden boy, is hoping his time at Ferencvaros revives his international prospects.

Jamie Maclaren, Mohamed Toure, Brandon Borrello, and Adrian Segecic round out a diverse attacking group that mixes youth, pace, and precision. There’s no shortage of options—now it’s up to Popovic to find the right combinations.

Australia’s Star Players to Watch at the World Cup

Australia v China PR – 2022 FIFA World Cup Qualifier

If the Socceroos are to reach the knockout rounds again—or even go beyond—they’ll need their big names to shine. Harry Souttar’s presence at both ends of the pitch could be decisive, especially against teams that struggle with aerial threats.

In midfield, Teague and O’Neill will be tasked with setting the tempo and breaking up play. Their control in central areas could be key to keeping Australia in tight matches.

Up top, it’s all about Boyle and Duke. The duo has already proven effective on the international stage and will need to produce moments of magic if Australia is to upset the odds again.

Predicted Australia Starting XI for World Cup 2026

Popovic is likely to stick with his trusted 3-4-3 formation, which allows width and midfield balance while offering defensive solidity.

Predicted XI (3-4-3):
Goalkeeper: Mathew Ryan
Defenders: Alessandro Circati, Harry Souttar, Cameron Burgess
Wing-backs: Lewis Miller, Aziz Behich
Midfielders: Ryan Teague, Aiden O’Neill
Forwards: Riley McGree, Martin Boyle, Mitchell Duke

Can the Socceroos Go One Step Further?

With World Cup experience now embedded into the core of the squad, and a crop of young talents breaking through across Europe and Asia, Australia’s 2026 World Cup squad is shaping up to be one of the strongest in recent memory.

They’re not favourites, and they’re not pretending to be—but the Socceroos have a blend of grit, structure, and star quality that could make them a very difficult opponent.

If the draw is kind and the key players stay fit, don’t be surprised if Australia finds themselves back in the Round of 16—or even further. After all, this is a team that thrives on being underestimated.