Socceroos begin World Cup adventure with underdog status left behind
The Australian men's national football team, the Socceroos, is preparing for the 2026 World Cup in a tournament expanded to 48 teams. The team is transitioning from its historical status as an underdog to a more established middle-power in international football.
Why it matters
The expansion of the World Cup format significantly changes the competitive landscape and qualification expectations for nations like Australia.
Australia coach Tony Popovic watches on as the Socceroos train in Oakland before heading to their World Cup opener against Turkey in Vancouver. Photograph: Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images View image in fullscreen Australia coach Tony Popovic watches on as the Socceroos train in Oakland before heading to their World Cup opener against Turkey in Vancouver. Photograph: Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images World Cup 2026 Socceroos begin World Cup adventure with underdog status left behind In a super-sized edition that makes Australia a middle power their young squad can budget for four matches at the tournament with the hope of more
Standard sports reporting focusing on team preparation and tournament logistics.
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