Where to Watch Socceroos World Cup Games in Australia
The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins June 12, 2026, hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. According to tournament schedules, the event opens at 5 a.m. AEST with Mexico facing South Africa at Mexico City Stadium and concludes July 20 with the final at New York/New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium. Australia’s national team, the Socceroos, will compete in Group D against the USA, Paraguay, and Turkey.
What is the Socceroos’ schedule and group standing?
Australia will play three group stage matches in the western region. According to the official schedule, the Socceroos face Turkey on June 14 at 2 p.m. at BC Place in Vancouver, the USA on June 20 at 5 a.m. at Seattle Stadium, and Paraguay on June 26 at 12 p.m. in the San Francisco Bay Area.
The USA enters as the top-ranked team in Group D at world No. 16, according to FIFA rankings. Turkey follows at No. 22, with Australia ranked 27th and Paraguay 40th. The Guardian’s power rankings provide a different perspective, placing Turkey 23rd, the USA 24th, Australia 28th, and Paraguay 32nd.
Who is in the 26-man Socceroos squad?
Coach Tony Popovic has selected a squad that emphasizes youth over experience. According to squad announcements, Popovic included two uncapped strikers: Tete Yengi and Cristian Volpato, who recently changed his allegiance from Italy to Australia.
Veterans Mathew Leckie, Harry Souttar, Maty Ryan, Jackson Irvine, and Aziz Behich remain in the squad. However, Kye Rowles, Brandon Borello, and Martin Boyle were omitted. Forwards Mo Touré and Nestory Irankunda are also available for selection.
How does the 48-team tournament format work?
The 2026 edition features an expanded 48-team field. According to tournament data, the composition includes 16 teams from Europe, nine each from Africa and Asia, six from South America, and six from North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Oceania is represented by one team.
The top two teams in each group will advance to the Round of 32. According to FIFA rules, the eight best third-placed teams will also progress, with qualification determined by points, then goal difference, and finally the number of goals scored.
Where can fans watch the matches in Australia?
Every match will be broadcast live on SBS and SBS Viceland, with streaming available via SBS On Demand. In Melbourne, Federation Square will serve as a primary live site. Other Victorian locations include AAMI Park, Marvel Stadium, and regional sites in Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, Traralgon, and Shepparton.
New South Wales fans can watch at Sydney’s Parramatta Square, Tumbalong Park, and Allianz Stadium, among other local parks. Regional viewers can access the games at the Jamberoo Pub.
What happens if the Socceroos advance?
If Australia progresses to the Round of 32, they could face a variety of opponents based on their final group position. A possible match on June 30 could take place at Boston Stadium, while a July 1 fixture may be held at the New York/New Jersey Stadium. Other potential knockout scenarios include a July 2 match in the San Francisco Bay Area or a July 4 game at Dallas Stadium.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the 2026 World Cup final take place?
The final is scheduled for July 20 at 5 a.m. AEST at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Which teams are in Group D with Australia?
The Socceroos are grouped with the USA, Paraguay, and Turkey.
Who is the coach of the Socceroos for the 2026 tournament?
The team is coached by Tony Popovic.
How do you think the expanded 48-team format will change the tournament’s dynamic?