Australia's 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup includes Livingston striker Tete Yengi and former Italy Under-21 winger Cristian Volpato, both uncapped at senior level [1, 2, 3]. Volpato, 22, switched his international allegiance from Italy to Australia with FIFA's approval on May 30. He only joined the squad the same day the decision was ratified [1, 2, 3].
Yengi, 25, currently on loan to Japanese club Machida Zelvia, scored 6 goals in 22 appearances this year. He helped the side reach the Asian Champions League final in April, where they lost 1-0 in extra time [1, 4, 5]. Standing 6 ft 6 in tall, Yengi has not played in Australia for five years but said, "It's amazing that my first call-up has come at a World Cup. Hopefully I can get on the pitch and show what I can do" [4, 5].
Yengi's older brother, Kusini Yengi, who has 11 caps since 2023, missed the tournament due to a hip injury sustained in March while playing for Cerezo Osaka [4, 5]. Tete said his brother "couldn't be here due to his injuries. I would have liked to be here with him. Maybe the next one" and noted they speak almost daily and hope to play together one day [5].
Experienced veterans in the squad include goalkeeper Mat Ryan, Mathew Leckie, Aziz Behich, and Jackson Irvine [1, 2, 3]. Patrick Beach was selected over Joe Gauci as the third goalkeeper, with Ryan set as starter [2, 3]. Defenders Martin Boyle and Kye Rowles were omitted due to form, injury issues, and competition. Boyle, who has 41 caps, missed out amid injury problems [1, 2, 3].
Coach Tony Popovic said, "Some difficult decisions had to be made – that’s the nature of major tournaments. But it’s also a credit to all the players involved over the past few weeks who worked extremely hard during an extended and challenging pre-camp" [2].
The team will play a final pre-tournament friendly against Switzerland on June 6 in preparation for their World Cup opener against Turkey on June 13 in San Diego [1, 4, 5].
