Cristian Volpato and Tete Yengi headline Australia's World Cup squad as Tony Popovic blends youth and experience for 2026.
Australia head into the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a squad that balances experience and fresh talent. Head coach Tony Popovic unveiled his final 26-man roster on Sunday, with uncapped pair Cristian Volpato and Tete Yengi among the most notable selections.
The inclusion of both players highlights Australia's willingness to embrace new faces as the Socceroos prepare for another global tournament.
Volpato's selection marks a remarkable turnaround. The Sassuolo playmaker only recently completed his international switch from Italy to Australia after previously declining the chance to represent the Socceroos at the 2022 World Cup.
The 22-year-old former Italy youth international received FIFA clearance just days before the squad announcement. Popovic wasted little time rewarding him with a place in the final group. Volpato joins the tournament as one of 17 World Cup debutants in Australia's squad. His creativity and technical ability could provide an extra dimension in attacking areas.
Tete Yengi is the other uncapped player to make the final roster. The 25-year-old striker impressed Popovic following a productive loan spell with Japanese side Machida Zelvia. Yengi scored six goals in 22 appearances after moving from Livingston in January. He also helped Machida reach the Asian Champions League final and secure a top-three finish in their domestic campaign.
His performances convinced the coaching staff despite him missing Australia's recent 1-0 friendly defeat to Mexico. The call-up comes ahead of more established forwards such as Brandon Borrello, who failed to make the final cut.
While youth dominates much of the discussion, Australia will still rely heavily on experienced leaders. Goalkeeper Mat Ryan has been selected for a fourth World Cup and remains captain of the side.
Mathew Leckie also earned a place after overcoming injury concerns. The veteran winger scored Australia's winning goal against Denmark at the 2022 World Cup and remains an important figure within the squad. Jackson Irvine, Aziz Behich, Cameron Burgess and Harry Souttar add further experience. Souttar's inclusion is particularly significant after a lengthy injury battle threatened his participation.
Australia entered the final selection phase following a narrow 1-0 loss to Mexico in a friendly at the Rose Bowl. The Socceroos struggled to create clear chances during that match but remained organised defensively for long periods.
Popovic used the extended training camp to evaluate several fringe players before making his final decisions. Defender Kye Rowles, forward Martin Boyle and goalkeeper Joe Gauci were among the notable omissions.
The coach acknowledged the difficulty of trimming the squad but praised the commitment shown by all players involved in preparation.
Several emerging talents could play major roles in Australia's campaign. Watford winger Nestory Irankunda brings pace and directness, while Norwich City striker Mohamed Toure offers another attacking option.
Eighteen-year-old defender Lucas Herrington and midfielder Paul Okon-Engstler also represent the next generation. However, much attention will focus on Volpato and Yengi as they seek to justify Popovic's faith. Their inclusion reflects Australia's desire to blend proven leaders with fresh energy and ambition.
Australia face Switzerland in their final World Cup warm-up match before the tournament begins. The Socceroos then open their Group campaign against Turkey on June 14. With a squad featuring 17 debutants and several experienced campaigners, Popovic hopes the balance is right for a deep run on football's biggest stage.
Goalkeepers: Mat Ryan, Paul Izzo, Patrick Beach
Defenders: Aziz Behich, Jordan Bos, Cameron Burgess, Alessandro Circati, Milos Degenek, Jason Geria, Lucas Herrington, Kai Trewin, Harry Souttar, Jacob Italiano
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 Velupillay, Cristian Volpato, Tete Yengi
