The Football Federation Australia (FFA) joined the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) in 2006 and officially became a member of the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) from 2013. Currently, former FFA Chairman Chris Nikou is a member of the AFF Council. However, since joining the region, the Australian national team (nicknamed Socceroos) has never participated in the biggest regional tournament—the AFF Cup.
The Australian team could bring top-level matches to the AFF Cup (Photo: Getty).
Reasons Why Australia Wants to Join the AFF Cup
In the past, the main reason Australia was not interested in the AFF Cup was the significant gap in skill levels between them and Southeast Asian teams. However, times have changed. The skills of teams in the region, such as Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia, have improved significantly. Notably, Indonesia recently drew with Australia 0-0 in the third round of World Cup 2026 qualifiers. This demonstrates that the skill gap is gradually narrowing.
Current Australian coach Tony Popovic emphasizes the importance of participating in the AFF Cup. He shared: “I strongly support the idea of the Australian team competing in the AFF Cup. International matches always provide great value for player development. We hope that both the U17, U20, and U23 teams will also have opportunities to participate. International experience is something that cannot be bought with money.”
Meaning for Southeast Asian Football
Australia’s participation in the AFF Cup will bring many benefits but also pose significant challenges. For teams like Vietnam, Thailand, or Indonesia, this is both an opportunity to compete against a top continental team and a major challenge in the race for the championship.
The presence of Australia will increase competition at the AFF Cup (Photo: Huong Duong).
Vietnamese football under Coach Park Hang-seo has achieved many successes, including winning the 2018 AFF Cup. However, if Australia participates, defending the title will become much more difficult. Similarly, Thailand—historically the most successful team in the AFF Cup—will face significant pressure.
Immediate Tasks for the Australian Team
Besides preparing for the AFF Cup, Coach Tony Popovic must also focus on helping the Australian team secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup. Currently, the Socceroos are second in Group C of the qualifiers with 7 points from 6 matches, just one point ahead of their closest competitors, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and China.
In March, Coach Tony Popovic will make his debut with the Australian team in two crucial matches against Indonesia and China. To maintain hopes of advancing, the team needs to win both matches.
Conclusion
Australia’s participation in the AFF Cup promises to mark a new turning point for Southeast Asian football. It is not only an opportunity for regional teams to improve their skills but also a chance to affirm their position on the continental football map. However, to achieve this goal, teams need to prepare thoroughly in terms of tactics and mental readiness.
Let’s look forward to the upcoming developments and support the growth of regional football!
