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3h ago

Popovic Extends Tenure as Socceroos Coach Through 2027 Asian Cup

Football Australia says the short-term deal secures post-World Cup continuity to enable planning for the January 2027 Asian Cup.

Australia head coach Tony Popovic has extended his contract ahead of the World Cup
Soccer Football - World Cup - Asian Qualifiers - Third Round - Group C - Japan v Australia - Saitama Stadium 2002, Saitama, Japan - October 15, 2024 Australia coach Tony Popovic before the match REUTERS/Issei Kato/File Photo
Tony Popovic is 'delighted' to have extended his term as Socceroos coach beyond the next Asian Cup. (Manuel Orbegozo/AAP PHOTOS)
Socceroos coach Tony Popovic gestures to his team, holding his arm out in a halting motion during a game.

Overview

  • Tony Popovic signed the contract extension on Thursday, with the announcement coming less than 48 hours before Australia’s opening World Cup match in Vancouver.
  • The deal keeps Popovic in charge through the AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia, scheduled for January 7 to February 5, 2027, a tournament for which the Socceroos have already qualified.
  • Popovic said his immediate focus remains the World Cup and preparing the team for group matches against Türkiye, the United States and Paraguay.
  • Football Australia chief executive Martin Kugeler called the extension a “fantastic outcome” that gives the federation clarity and confidence for post‑World Cup planning.
  • The move follows Popovic’s appointment in October 2024 and an unbeaten World Cup qualifying run, and it gives the squad short-term stability while preserving options after the global tournament.