Australia injury World Cup setback has grown stronger just before they take on France in their vital Round of 32 match of the FIFA World Cup 2026, as two key players are being ruled out based on fitness concerns. Squad depth is a concern in the absence of experienced forward Mathew Leckie and right-back Jacob Italiano in an important phase of the tournament.
Leckie, who is in his fourth World Cup appearance this time around, was injured in the hamstring on Australia’s 2-0 loss to the United States in Group D. He was already ruled out for the next match against Paraguay, though, and early doubts emerged that he would be ready.
Former Turkey and U.S. team member Jacob Italiano got injured his groin in training. He also had no place in the Paraguay game and medical tests have now ruled him out for the rest of the tournament.
It was confirmed by the Socceroos official statement that the development was taking place, while both players are continuing their rehabilitation off the field. The team will then be reduced to 24, which will reduce the options for rotation and tactical flexibility for the manager.
Head coach Tony Popovic will face a structural issue as Australia faces Egypt in a big-rounding game in Dallas on July 3. But Mohamed Salah’s Egypt are coming in with attacking fire and impetus which puts pressure on the Australian setup.
Competitive wise, the absence of Leckie takes away experience and attacking transition, Italiano in turn takes away defensive width and coverage. These injuries can have a dramatic impact due to the timing of the injury, just before a critical elimination round. Now it will be up to Australia’s tactical flexibility and strength and determination to make it back from a challenge against a balanced Egyptian team.
