Nestory Irankunda has been omitted from Australia’s squad for the crucial World Cup qualifiers, while Sydney FC's Rhyan Grant makes a surprising return to international duty. Coach Tony Popovic has made significant changes to the team as they prepare for vital matches against Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.

"Socceroos Drop Rising Star Nestory Irankunda Ahead of Key World Cup Qualifiers"

Changes in the Socceroos Squad Include Notable Omissions and Surprising Returns

Head coach Tony Popovic has opted for eight changes to the Socceroos squad, maintaining a core group that recently secured a 3-1 victory over China and a 1-1 draw against Japan. The exclusion of 18-year-old Irankunda, who has been training with Bayern Munich’s first team but playing with the reserves, surprised many. Additionally, Keanu Baccus, a consistent starter under the previous coach Graham Arnold, was also left out of the selection.

Rhyan Grant's Unexpected Career Resurgence

Rhyan Grant, the 33-year-old right-back for Sydney FC, will rejoin the national team for the first time since Australia’s qualifying match against Japan in 2021. In a previous statement, Grant had indicated that he felt his international career was over, saying, "I think that ship has sailed." However, he will now be accompanied by teammate Anthony Caceres, who is set to make his debut at the age of 32, and 20-year-old defender Hayden Matthews, who is also receiving his first call-up.

Former Central Coast Player Max Balard Earns His First Call-Up

Max Balard, who has been excelling with NAC Breda in the Dutch Eredivisie, has received his first selection for the Socceroos. Furthermore, Milos Degenek, currently with FK Crvena Zvezda, is expected to return after battling injuries since October 2023. Hibernian’s Martin Boyle is also back after recovering from wrist surgery, alongside Kusini Yengi, who missed the last window due to suspension and later faced an injury while at Portsmouth.

Australia's Position and Upcoming Fixtures in World Cup Qualifying

Australia currently sits in second place in Group C with five points, trailing Japan by five points. They hold a narrow advantage over Saudi Arabia and Bahrain on goal difference, with the top two teams earning direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup. Key player Craig Goodwin will be suspended for the upcoming match against Saudi Arabia at AAMI Park but is expected to play against Bahrain in Riffa.

Tony Popovic Expresses Confidence in Team Development

Popovic emphasized the importance of the upcoming fixtures, stating, "We're in the early stages of this journey as a group, and we'll continue to implement the style of play that will be the foundation of our success throughout this cycle." He highlighted the significance of ending the year on a positive note while acknowledging the strong support received from Melbourne fans in recent years.

Notable Absentees from the Squad

Several players missed out on selection, including Luke Brattan, Sammy Silvera, Thomas Deng, Daniel Arzani, Apostolos Stamatelopoulos, and the injured Gianni Stensness. Massimo Luongo and Connor Metcalfe are also unavailable as they continue their recovery from injuries.

Australia's Squad for the Upcoming World Cup Qualifiers

The selected squad is as follows:
Goalkeepers: Maty Ryan, Joe Gauci, Paul Izzo.
Defenders: Aziz Behich, Jordy Bos, Cameron Burgess, Milos Degenek, Jason Geria, Rhyan Grant, Hayden Matthews, Lewis Miller, Kye Rowles, Harry Souttar.
Midfielders: Max Balard, Anthony Caceres, Ajdin Hrustic, Jackson Irvine, Riley McGree, Aiden O'Neill, Patrick Yazbek.
Forwards: Brandon Borrello, Martin Boyle, Mitchell Duke, Craig Goodwin, Nishan Velupillay, Kusini Yengi.