Popovic’s Socceroos Aim High in Crucial Qualifiers Against Japan and Saudi Arabia
The stage is set and the excitement is real. Tony Popovic has officially named his 26-man Subway Socceroos squad for the all-important AFC Asian Qualifiers matches against Japan and Saudi Arabia. These are not just any matches — they are the final Round Three fixtures in the long Road to the FIFA World Cup 2026™, and every moment will count.
Australia currently sits second in Group C with 13 points, just three ahead of Saudi Arabia. With only two matches remaining, the Socceroos need to hold their ground — and ideally, finish strong — to secure automatic qualification. The first of these two massive clashes will take place on home soil at Perth Stadium on Thursday, June 5. It’s a debut appearance for the Socceroos at this stunning venue, and they’ll be up against none other than Asian heavyweights, Japan.
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Popovic’s selection reflects both form and faith. He’s brought in several returning stars like Riley McGree and Connor Metcalfe, both back from injury, while Alessandro Circati makes a timely comeback from an ACL injury. There's also a big moment for West Australian Kasey Bos and rising talent Paul Okon-Engstler, who earn their first senior call-ups — a reward for their standout performances in youth internationals and the recent Abu Dhabi training camp.
Captain Mat Ryan has made it clear: Australia’s confidence is sky-high. “In my eyes, we’re the best in Asia,” Ryan declared, speaking in Perth ahead of the showdown. That’s not arrogance, he insists — it’s belief, a mindset necessary to win at the highest level. With Japan having already secured qualification, they still bring a top-tier lineup, including stars like Endo, Kamada, and Kubo. But Ryan is unfazed. He knows the importance of this game for Australia and believes the home crowd in Perth can be the extra edge they need.
The squad arrives in Perth after a rare extended training camp in the UAE — a luxury in international football that Popovic was quick to take advantage of. It’s not just about tactics; it’s about team cohesion and readiness. According to the coach, the team is united, well-prepared, and focused. “We’ve put ourselves in a good position to be in control of our destiny,” he stated, emphasizing both respect for the opposition and confidence in their own ability.
Following the Japan match, the Socceroos head to Jeddah to face Saudi Arabia on June 10 in what could be a dramatic finale to the qualifiers. If Australia beat Japan, they’ll have one foot in the World Cup. If not, it all comes down to the final match.
It’s now or never for Popovic’s men. With momentum from recent wins against Indonesia and China PR, a confident squad, and a nation behind them, the Subway Socceroos are ready to step up and seize their World Cup destiny.
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