The Socceroos are going toward the World Cup. With a 2-1 victory over Saudi Arabia on Tuesday night in Jeddah, Australia secured its passage to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
This is the sixth straight qualification for the Socceroos and their seventh total presence on the greatest football platform.
What happened?
First attack came from Saudi Arabia early on in the 19th minute as Abdulrahman Al Obod found the back of the net to propel the home team to an early advantage.
Australia, though, answered stylishly. In the 42nd minute, St. Pauli midfielder Connor Metcalfe equalized just before halftime with a composed finish.
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Moments after the resumption, Tony Popovic’s side’s experienced striker Mitch Duke scored the victor in the 48th. It was a perfect return.
Who else met the requirements besides the Socceroos?
Australia end second in AFC’s Group C behind group leaders Japan following this victory. Both countries move straight into the World Cup.
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From the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) also arriving are South Korea, Iran, and first-time qualifiers Jordan and Uzbekistan.
What next for Saudi Arabia?
Though losing hurts, the Green Falcons remain contenders. Saudi Arabia advances into the following round of AFC qualifying, which starts in October.
Two additional automated locations are open. One team will also advance to an intercontinental playoff. Thus for the Falcons, the path to 2026 is not yet complete—but the heat is now on.
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