The 2026 FIFA World Cup is underway, with action set to spread across the United States, Canada and Mexico, and it’s almost time for Australia to get involved.
The Socceroos are set to face Türkiye in their first Group D match as they look to qualify for the knockout stages of the tournament for the third time.
Here’s everything you need to know ahead of kick-off.
When is the Socceroos’ first World Cup match?
The Socceroos will face Türkiye on Sunday at 2pm AEST/1:30pm ACST/12pm AWST.
Who are the Socceroos playing?
Türkiye is Australia’s first opponent at this World Cup.
This tournament marks Türkiye’s first appearance at the World Cup finals since 2002, although the 22nd-ranked nation in the world is tipped by many to be somewhat of a dark horse.
Star players like Kenan Yildiz, Arda Güler and Hakan Çalhanoğlu will ensure the Socceroos’ first assignment at the 2026 World Cup is a difficult one.
How to watch Socceroos vs Türkiye
The match will be broadcast live on SBS and streamed on SBS On Demand.
ABC Sport will also have special live blog coverage of the Socceroos’ clash with Türkiye, while also blogging each and every game of the 2026 World Cup.
The Socceroos celebrate a goal in their friendly against Switzerland. (Getty Images: Orlando Ramirez)
Where are the Socceroos playing Türkiye?
The Socceroos’ opening match will be played in Vancouver, in the brilliant BC Place.
Vancouver’s flagship stadium can hold nearly 55,000 people and it boasts a retractable roof, which will be kept shut for all games at this World Cup.
What about the Socceroos’ next games?
Australia’s second game is against host nation USA on Saturday, June 20. This match, likely one of the biggest the Socceroos have ever played in, will kick off at 5am AEST.
Our third Group D match will be against Paraguay on Friday June 26, kicking off at 12pm AEST.
How can Australia progress from the group?
If the Socceroos finish first or second in Group D, they will progress to the round of 32.
They could also find a passage through to the knockout stages by finishing third because the eight best third-place finishers across the 12 groups will also find a spot in the next round.
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