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This result placed Australia second to Japan in Group C during the Asian Football Confederation qualifying, allowing them to bypass a fourth round of qualifiers.
“The final moment where it comes — that feeling — that’s why we keep going and going for moments like this, the dedication, the sacrifice.”
Socceroos defender Milos Degenek (right) competes against Saudi Arabia’s Feras Albrikan in their World Cup qualifier in Jeddah on Tuesday morning. Source: AP / .
Socceroos coach Tony Popovic, who came into the job in September after former coach Graham Arnold quit following the Socceroos getting just a point from their first two qualifiers, said the result was still sinking in.
Popovic is unbeaten as national team coach since taking over from Arnold.
How did the Socceroos perform at the last five World Cups?
Here’s a quick rundown of how the Socceroos performed at the previous five World Cups:
Germany 2006
During the tournament, the Socceroos progressed past the group stage for the first time, securing second place in their group behind Brazil. They were subsequently knocked out after a 1-0 defeat to Italy.
Socceroos striker John Aloisi celebrates scoring the penalty against Uruguay in Sydney in 2005 that sent Australia through to the 2006 World Cup. Source: AP / Mark Baker
South Africa 2010
In the World Cup, they finished third in their group.
Credit: SBS News
Brazil 2014
In the tournament, Australia was drawn into a challenging group with Spain, the Netherlands and Chile. They lost all three matches and were eliminated in the group stage.
Russia 2018
At the World Cup, the Socceroos finished fourth in their group, with one draw and two losses, exiting in the group stage.
Qatar 2022
They were eliminated after a 2–1 loss to Argentina.
Which other countries have qualified for the 2026 World Cup so far?
Countries aiming to qualify for the tournament play games in their confederations, which cover Europe, South America, Asia, Africa, North and Central America and Oceania.
Socceroos midfielder Aaron Mooy challenges Argentina’s Lionel Messi during their Round of 16 match at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Australia lost 2-1 and Argentina went on to win the tournament. Source: Getty / Alex Grimm
