Sydney FC midfielder Paul Okon Jnr has been selected in the final 26-player Australia men’s national soccer team squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026, completing a remarkable rise for one of Australian football’s brightest young talents.
The 21-year-old becomes the latest Sky Blue to earn selection for football’s biggest tournament after being named by Head Coach Tony Popovic in Australia’s squad for the tournament in North America.
Okon Jnr enjoyed an outstanding debut season with Sydney FC after arriving from Portuguese giants Benfica, quickly establishing himself as a key figure in midfield with his composure, passing range and maturity beyond his years.
His World Cup selection caps a memorable 12 months which have also included international recognition at youth level and a breakthrough into the senior Socceroos setup.
The midfielder was initially added to the Socceroos’ World Cup pre-camp training squad before doing enough to secure his place in the final 26-player group travelling to the tournament.
Australia have been drawn in Group D and will begin their World Cup campaign against Türkiye before facing co-hosts United States and Paraguay.
Everyone at Sydney FC congratulates Paul on his selection and wishes him every success as he prepares to represent Australia at the FIFA World Cup 2026™.
