Nishan Velupillay has been selected to play for Australia at the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup.
Melbourne Victory’s attacker is part of the nation’s 26-player squad for the 48-team tournament co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the U.S.
The Socceroos, led by former Victory Head Coach Tony Popovic, are in Group D alongside Turkey, the U.S. and Paraguay.
25-year-old Velupillay has seven senior caps and three goals for Australia, having debuted for his country against China in October 2024.
Melbourne Victory Director of Football, John Didulica, congratulated Velupillay:
“Nish has worked exceptionally hard since he first walked into this club as a junior footballer to put himself in this position.
“I couldn’t think of any player more deserving of this honour and it is a proud moment for him, his family and everyone associated with Melbourne Victory – the coaches, team-mates, staff and members – who have supported his journey.
“Nish will know better than anyone that making the World Cup team is just the start, and that he has been given an opportunity to achieve something special as part of this really exciting Socceroos team.”
Good luck, Nish!
MATCH DETAILS:
International friendly: Switzerland v Australia
Date: Saturday, June 6/Sunday, June 7
Kick-off: 12pm local/5am AEST
Venue: Snapdragon Stadium, San Diego
World Cup Group D: Australia v Turkey
Date: Saturday, June 13/Sunday, June 14
Kick-off: 9pm local/2pm AEST
Venue: BC Place, Vancouver
World Cup Group D: U.S. v Australia
Date: Friday, June 19/Saturday, June 20
Kick-off: 12pm local/5am AEST
Venue: Seattle Stadium, Seattle
World Cup Group D: Paraguay v Australia
Date: Thursday, June 25/Friday, June 26
Kick-off: 7pm local/12pm AEST
Venue: San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, Santa Clara