Socceroos boss Tony Popovic has named his final 26-man squad for the FIFA World Cup with Cristian Volpato making the final cut just days after pledging his allegiance to Australia.
The 22-year-old winger, who previously wanted to play for Italy, is one of two uncapped players in the squad alongside Tete Yengi, who has been rewarded for a breakout season in Japan.
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The Socceroos will have a new look about them in the United States and Canada as 17 squad members head to the World Cup for the first time.
On the other end of the scale, captain Mat Ryan and goal scorer in Qatar four years ago Mathew Leckie have been named for their fourth World Cup – matching Tim Cahill’s national record.
The announcement comes after the Socceroos were beaten 1-0 in a friendly by tournament co-hosts Mexico yesterday.
“We are delighted to finally announce the 26 players who will represent the Socceroos at the FIFA World Cup 2026,” Popovic said in a statement.
“A range of factors has gone into selecting this final World Cup squad. Some difficult decisions had to be made – that’s the nature of major tournaments. But it’s also a credit to all the players involved over the past few weeks who worked extremely hard during an extended and challenging pre-camp.
“I’d like to acknowledge the players who contributed to our direct World Cup qualification but are not part of this squad. Their contribution should not be forgotten.
“Our focus now shifts to finalising our preparations for the upcoming friendly against Switzerland and for our World Cup group matches.”
FULL SQUAD
Goalkeepers: Mathew Ryan (c), Paul Izzo, Patrick Beach
Defenders: Aziz Behich, Jordan Bos, Cameron Burgess, Alessandro Circati, Milos Degenek, Jason Geria, Lucas HerringtoJacob Italiano, Harry Souttar, Kai Trewin,
Midfielders: Cameron Devlin, Ajdin Hrustic, Jackson Irvine, Connor Metcalfe, Aiden O’Neill, Paul Okon-Engstler
Forwards: Nestory Irankunda, Mathew Leckie, Awer Mabil, Mohamed Toure, Nishan Velupillary, Cristian Volpato, Tete Yengi