The Socceroos will face a familiar figure, Graham Arnold, in the 2027 Asian Cup after being drawn against Iraq, the team now coached by their former boss. The tournament is set to take place in Saudi Arabia in January 2027, with Australia placed in Group D alongside Iraq, Singapore, and Tajikistan.
Graham Arnold and the Socceroos Reunion
Graham Arnold, who previously led the Socceroos and guided them to the last 16 of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, is now the head coach of Iraq. Arnold has gained recognition in Iraq for leading the 2007 Asian Cup winners back to the World Cup for the first time in 40 years after their playoff victory against Bolivia.
The upcoming match between Australia and Iraq will mark a challenging reunion, as Arnold’s team is also qualified for the World Cup. The Socceroos, ranked 27th in the world and the highest-ranked team in their group, will open their Asian Cup campaign against Singapore on 9 January, followed by the match against Iraq on 14 January, and then Tajikistan on 19 January.
Group D and Tournament Details
- Group D Teams: Australia, Iraq, Singapore, Tajikistan
- Dates: Matches scheduled between 9 and 19 January 2027
- Location: Saudi Arabia, across stadiums in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Khobar
The Socceroos are aiming to reclaim the Asian Cup trophy they last won in 2015 under Ange Postecoglou. Tony Popovic, who took over coaching duties from Arnold in 2024, expressed respect for all group opponents and emphasized the importance of the competition in Australian football history.
“Singapore, Tajikistan and Iraq are all strong opponents that we know and respect, and we look forward to the challenge ahead,” Popovic said in a statement issued by Football Australia.
Qualification and Tournament Format
The 2027 Asian Cup will feature 24 teams, with the top two teams from each group guaranteed qualification to the knockout stages. Additionally, four of the best third-placed teams will also advance to the last 16. The final tournament draw was held at the At-Turaif World Heritage Site in Riyadh after being postponed due to conflict in the Middle East.
Other notable groups include Group C with Iran, Syria, Kyrgyz Republic, and China PR, and Group E featuring Korea Republic, United Arab Emirates, Vietnam, and either Lebanon or Yemen.