Renowned cartoonist and commentator David Squires has turned his sharp eye to the future of Australian football, compiling a pragmatic yet hopeful wishlist for the year 2026. His reflections capture the collective aspirations of fans across the nation, focusing on the fortunes of the Socceroos, the Matildas, and the domestic A-League competitions.
The International Stage: World Cup Dreams and Asian Glory
Central to Squires' vision for 2026 are the upcoming major tournaments that will define the era for Australia's national teams. For the Socceroos, all eyes are firmly set on qualification and a credible performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The expanded format offers new opportunities, and fans are crossing their fingers for a squad that can progress beyond the group stages and make a lasting impact on the global scene.
Simultaneously, the celebrated Matildas have a huge milestone on the horizon. Australia is set to host the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup, a tournament where the team will be under immense pressure and scrutiny as favourites on home soil. The wishlist includes a fully fit squad, featuring superstar Sam Kerr, and a triumphant campaign that culminates in lifting the trophy, cementing their legacy and inspiring a new generation.
Domestic Focus: Revitalising the A-League
The health of the domestic game remains a critical concern for supporters. Squires' wishlist for the A-League Men and A-League Women involves sustainable growth and heightened excitement. Key desires include consistent increases in crowd attendance, more competitive balance across the clubs, and the continued emergence of young Australian talent ready to step up to the national teams.
For the A-League Women specifically, the goals are aligned with building on the monumental momentum generated by the Matildas' success. This means securing better broadcasting deals, improving player conditions and professionalism, and ensuring the league is a compelling product that stands on its own two feet as a world-class competition.
Broader Hopes for the Football Ecosystem
Beyond specific teams and leagues, Squires' commentary hints at wider wishes for Australian football's infrastructure and culture. There is a clear hope for continued investment in youth development pathways, ensuring the pipeline of talent never dries up. Furthermore, the desire for greater unity and strategic vision from the game's administrators is a common thread, aiming to avoid the off-field distractions that have plagued progress in the past.
In essence, the wishlist for 2026 is about capitalising on potential and converting hope into tangible success. It is a blend of optimism for international glory and a pragmatic understanding that the foundation for that success must be laid at home in the A-League and development systems. As Squires illustrates, the coming years are pivotal for football in Australia.
