Australia

Australia, the Socceroos, blend physicality, resilience, and a never-give-up mentality forged across a vast sporting nation. After switching from the Oceania to the Asian confederation in 2006, Australia became a regular World Cup qualifier and one of the AFC's most competitive sides.

Australia's golden generation reached the round of 16 on their return in 2006, falling to eventual champions Italy on a contentious last-minute penalty. After three group-stage exits, the Socceroos roared back in 2022, beating Tunisia and Denmark to reach the knockout rounds for just the second time before a narrow loss to Argentina. Their gritty, organized approach has made them a respected fixture at the finals, with qualification secured again for 2026.