Australia
Group D · AFC · FIFA #24
The Socceroos made an extraordinary run to the 2022 quarter-finals — their best finish since 2006 — and Tony Popovic has maintained the competitive core of that squad. Without the galvanising force of retired players, the current generation faces pressure to prove the 2022 run was not a one-off.
At a Glance
Tournament Threat
5/10
FIFA Ranking
#24
Group
D
Recent Form
W D L W W
Key Players
Mathew Ryan
Miloš Degenek
Martin Boyle
Coach: Tony Popovic
Tactical Analysis
A resilient defensive 4-4-2 or 5-4-1 with emphasis on counter-attack and aerial threat at set pieces. Ryan is world-class in goal and often Australia's most influential player in tight matches.
Betting Angle
Australia games tend toward low-scoring affairs — under 2.5 goals markets often have value, particularly against stronger opponents where they defend deep.
Did You Know?
- Australia's 2022 run to the quarter-finals included a penalty shootout win over France-linked Aston Villa and a famous victory over Denmark.
- Mathew Ryan saved a crucial penalty against Peru in the 2022 intercontinental play-off to secure qualification.
- The Socceroos beat Netherlands 2-1 in the 2022 round of 16, one of that tournament's genuine upsets.