World Cup 2026: Socceroos face tough draw

The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, commences on June 12 and will conclude on July 20. This edition marks the first time three nations share hosting duties, featuring 16 host cities across North America. For Australian viewers, all 104 matches will be broadcast live on SBS and SBS Viceland, with streaming available on SBS On Demand. Kick-off times for the Socceroos' group stage matches are set between 5am and 2pm AEST.

Australia has been drawn into Group D, facing a competitive field that includes co-host USA, Turkey, and Paraguay. Their group stage fixtures are scheduled for June 14 against Turkey, June 20 against the USA, and June 26 against Paraguay. Advancing teams will progress to the Round of 32. Notable squad selections for the Socceroos include uncapped strikers Cristian Volpato and Tete Yengi.

Off-pitch stories are also prominent, including concerns over inflated costs and the tournament's environmental impact. Security measures involving ICE have raised human rights concerns, and Iran has relocated its base amid international tensions. The Socceroos' performance in the 2022 World Cup saw them reach the round of 16, narrowly losing to eventual champions Argentina.