Australia announced on Monday that its national football team, the Socceroos, will play two matches against Brazil in their first home fixtures following the 2026 World Cup. The games are scheduled for September 25 in Townsville and September 29 in Brisbane, both against Carlo Ancelotti's star-studded side.
Coach Popovic welcomes top-tier opposition
Socceroos coach Tony Popovic expressed enthusiasm about the fixtures, stating, 'Brazil are a world-class football nation, and we look forward to facing them in Australia.' He added, 'While my immediate focus remains firmly on our World Cup campaign, I’m delighted that we are locking in fixtures of this calibre, because we want to consistently test ourselves against top-tier opposition moving forward.'
Historical record between the teams
The two teams have met 11 times since their first encounter in 1988. Australia has won only once, with two draws and eight losses to Brazil. The upcoming matches offer a chance for the Socceroos to improve their record against the five-time world champions.
Queensland's push for 2032 Olympics
Securing these games is part of the Queensland state government's strategy to position the region as Australia's events capital in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympics in Brisbane. The matches will provide a major sporting spectacle and boost local tourism and economy.
Both teams advance in World Cup
Australia and Brazil have both qualified for the round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup. Brazil faces Japan in Houston on June 29, while the Socceroos meet Egypt in Dallas on July 3. The friendly double-header in September will serve as a test for both sides as they prepare for future competitions.
