Socceroos Gear Up with Mexico Clash

The Socceroos secure an ideal preparation match against co-hosts Mexico at the historic Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California. This friendly on May 31 AEST serves as the ultimate test for players vying for spots in coach Tony Popovic’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad.

The 90,000-seat venue, site of the 1994 World Cup final and 1999 Women’s World Cup final, anticipates a sellout crowd dominated by passionate Mexican supporters. Players brace for a raucous atmosphere, mirroring the intensity of their upcoming group stage encounter with co-hosts the United States.

Head-to-Head History and Strategic Importance

Australia meets Mexico for the seventh time, holding a record of two wins, three draws, and one loss since their 1970 debut. Their latest outing ended in a 2-2 stalemate in Arlington, Texas, in September 2023 under previous management.

“This marks one of our last friendlies before the FIFA World Cup opener in Vancouver against a UEFA Playoff winner,” Popovic stated. “It offers players a final chance to shine before submitting the squad to FIFA. Mexico, qualified as co-hosts, brings high stakes to every match. We anticipate an electric vibe at this legendary stadium.”

World Cup Group and Preparation Schedule

Drawn in Group D, Australia opens against the UEFA Playoff C winner—Turkey, Romania, Slovakia, or Kosovo—on June 14 AEDT in Vancouver. They follow with the United States in Seattle on June 20 and Paraguay in Santa Clara on June 26.

Post-Mexico, the team bases in the Bay Area for final tuning. Earlier send-offs include Cameroon at Sydney’s Accor Stadium on March 27 and Curacao at Melbourne’s AAMI Park on March 31.

The tournament launches June 12 AEST with Mexico versus South Africa. All 104 matches across the United States, Canada, and Mexico air live and free on SBS.