Australia continues their journey in the third round of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Asian Qualifiers on Thursday night when they host Indonesia in another crucial Group C fixture. Just one point separates second and sixth in the standings, so there’s plenty on the line in this one. As always, we bring you our full match preview and best bet for free below!
2026 World Cup Qualifiers
Australia vs Indonesia
Thursday 8:10pm AEDT, Sydney Football Stadium
Australia and Indonesia face off in a crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 Asian Qualifiers Third Round clash on Thursday night in Sydney. With just one point separating second and sixth place in Group C, this match could have significant implications for the qualification race. Australia currently sit second with seven points, while Indonesia are third with six. Japan have taken control of the group with 16 points, leaving the rest of the teams battling for the remaining automatic qualification spot. The top two nations will qualify directly for the World Cup, while third and fourth will advance to another stage of qualifying. Meanwhile, the teams that finish fifth and sixth will be eliminated, making this a must-win match for both sides.
When these teams met in Indonesia last September, Australia dominated the contest but were unable to find the breakthrough in a frustrating 0-0 draw. The Socceroos controlled possession with 62% and had a significant advantage in goal attempts (19-5) and shots on target (5-2). However, despite their attacking superiority, they were unable to convert their dominance into a victory. Now back on home soil, Australia will be eager to make amends and secure a crucial three points. Historically, they have a perfect record against Indonesia when playing at home, winning all five meetings. Their most recent encounter came earlier in 2024 at the Asian Cup, where Australia cruised to a 4-0 victory in the knockout stages. However, with only two meetings between these sides in the past 15 years, there is little recent history to analyse.
Australia enter the match as clear favourites, with bookmakers listing them at around $1.50 to win, while Indonesia are priced above $6. The Socceroos will have the advantage of playing in front of a strong home crowd and will be determined to secure a much-needed victory. Given their superior talent, expect the Aussies to control possession and create plenty of scoring chances. Indonesia, on the other hand, will likely look to frustrate the hosts defensively, much like they did in the reverse fixture. However, Australia’s ability to dictate play and their strong home record suggest they should come out on top.
With so much on the line, the Socceroos will be motivated to put in a strong performance and move one step closer to World Cup qualification. A win would keep them in the top two heading into the final stretch of the group stage, while a loss could see them drop down the table in the tightest group of the qualifiers. Given Australia’s dominance in the reverse fixture and their strength at home, you should expect them to win comfortably. The -1.5 handicap market presents value, as the hosts should secure a multi-goal victory and boost their goal difference in the process.
Australia -1.5
$2.40 (1 Unit)
