Australia are taking part in a sixth consecutive World Cup in 2026.
The Socceroos made their tournament debut in 1974 but did not return for another 32 years. And they have been ever present since.
However, they haven’t had the best of luck during that run. Australia have made the knockout stages in just two of their past five appearances as the World Cup. They did so in 2022, can they repeat the feat in North America this summer?
They certainly got themselves off to the best possible start, beating Turkey 2-0 in a class smash and grab win and giving their chances of qualification a huge boost.
However, a 2-0 loss to hosts USA in the second game will have dented confidence. A draw against Paraguay will surely be enough to see them through as one of the best third-placed teams if they can manage it.
Australia odds to win the World Cup
Australia have very long odds to win the World Cup. They’re not quite Leicester City 2015-16 odds — but it would be a huge shock.
The Socceroos have just two World Cup knockout appearances in their six tournaments so far, losing in the round-of-16 in 2006 and 2022. Australia did have their best tournament in Qatar four years ago, winning two of their three group stage games — as many as in their previous 16 World Cup matches combined.
READ MORE: Australia World Cup 2026 fixtures, key players and tactical analysis
Australia odds to win Group D
Australia can no longer win Group D. At best they can match the USA for points but the hosts would finish above them on their head-to-head record in that case.
Australia World Cup top goalscorer odds
Nestory Irankunda is the only Australian player with odds to win the Golden Boot at the 2026 World Cup. But it’s not very likely according to the bookies.
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