Why two ‘dead rubbers’ in June could shape Socceroos’ 2026 World Cup hopes

Asia’s allocation of World Cup slots has increased from 4.5 to 8.5 due to the tournament’s controversial expansion from 32 to 48 teams, with the 2026 edition to be the first of that size. Ranking points will also ultimately determine the World Cup draw, and whether the Socceroos – if they make it – find themselves in another ‘group of death’ or in a more hospitable pool.

Arnold acknowledged he had scope to try out new faces or systems against Bangladesh and Palestine, and that some of his senior players may need a proper post-season holiday to refresh themselves physically and mentally, but said his priority was winning both games and securing the maximum number of ranking points.

“I’m not into giving caps away. To earn a cap, it needs to be deserved,” he said.

“But some of the older boys, maybe they need a break – especially after they come off the back of the World Cup and then go back their clubs, and then they’ve had an Asian Cup in the middle of the season. It’s something further down the track, I’ll be contacting all the boys and having a good chat to them on how they feel and if they need a break.”

Arnold has thus far successfully jugged the dual priorities of winning games and blooding new players as he continues to turn over Australia’s squad. Three players – John Iredale, Patrick Yazbek and Josh Nisbet – made their debuts in this window, while four players – Iredale, Kusini Yengi, Kye Rowles and Keanu Baccus – scored their maiden international goals.

Only 10 players from the Socceroos’ match day squad in Canberra were in Arnold’s squad for the 2022 World Cup.

“If you don’t give kids a chance, you never know,” Arnold said.

“Giving them the opportunity here [in Canberra] and to be able to play in front of a full crowd will inspire them to when they go back to their clubs to improve more and want more, and that’s important for us in the future.”

But as players dispersed on Wednesday to their clubs around the world, they left with a stern message from Arnold ringing in their ears.

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“I had a strong conversation with the players about individual quality and ownership, because I get one session, two sessions [with them],” he said.

“Basically, you’ve got to be the finished product when you come into camp. If you’re doing shooting, for example – do more at your club and remember what I’m saying to you, put the ball in the back of the net when you’re shooting. It’s not there for fun, it’s a job.

“All those technical skills and that, I don’t get time to train them. They’ve got to be the finished product physically, technically. Tactically, we give them a structure, but for me, our strength is the Aussie DNA, the mentality and that’s what we’re working hard on.”

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