Queensland to host Socceroos versus Brazil in September friendlies

By Bilal Ahmed

By Bilal Ahmed — 30 June 2026 — 3 min read

The CommBank Socceroos are set to play against Brazil, five-time FIFA World Cup champions, in two international friendly matches in Queensland this September. These fixtures will add a new chapter to the football rivalry between Australia and Brazil, which has historically been challenging for the Australian side.

The Queensland Government and Tourism and Events Queensland are supporting these matches. The first game is scheduled for September 25 at Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville, followed by a second match on September 29 at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.

These upcoming games will mark the latest encounters between the two nations, whose rivalry dates back to 1988. They have met 11 times in total, including nine senior international matches, with Brazil holding a stronger record. Australia has achieved one victory and two draws across all their previous meetings.

Australia’s sole win against Brazil occurred in the 2001 FIFA Confederations Cup third-place play-off, where they secured a 1-0 victory in Ulsan. The teams also faced each other at the 2006 FIFA World Cup, where Australia kept Brazil scoreless until halftime before eventually losing 2-0. Another notable match was at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul, before age restrictions were implemented for the tournament.

The most recent encounter between the two national teams took place in Melbourne in 2017. Several current Socceroos players, including Aziz Behich, Milos Degenek, Mathew Leckie, Jackson Irvine, and Ajdin Hrustic, participated in that match.

Significance for Australian Football

Socceroos head coach Tony Popovic expressed his appreciation for the chance to compete against a top-tier opponent, though he emphasized that his immediate priority remains Australia’s World Cup campaign. He stated that facing a world-class football nation like Brazil in Australia provides an important opportunity to consistently test the team against elite opposition.

Football Australia chief executive Martin Kugeler described Brazil’s visit as a significant event for Australian football. He noted that these fixtures are crucial for inspiring football fans of all ages across Australia and for demonstrating the national team’s strength and ambition at the highest level. He also thanked the Queensland Government for facilitating these matches.

The Queensland Government’s initiative ensures that Queensland will host the Socceroos’ first home matches following their World Cup campaign. This also brings one of the most prominent names in world football to the state, offering a unique experience for local fans.

The Brazilian and Australian teams are also expected to engage in various community events and activities throughout Queensland. These will include public training sessions, fan engagement opportunities, and programs involving local clubs, fostering a deeper connection with the community.

Economic and Tourism Impact

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli highlighted that securing the Brazil Socceroos series is part of the government’s ongoing effort to establish Queensland as Australia’s events capital. He noted that bringing world-class events to the state supports jobs, attracts visitors, and delivers long-term benefits for the entire region.

The international series is projected to inject millions of dollars into the Queensland economy. This is anticipated to provide a substantial boost for tourism, secure jobs within the state, and draw global attention to Queensland following the FIFA World Cup.

Queensland Tourism Minister Andrew Powell stated that hosting the Brazilian national team shortly after the 2026 FIFA World Cup will enhance the state’s reputation as a premier destination for major sporting events. He added that such events generate tourism and economic benefits for local communities, encouraging more people to visit the state.

Minister Powell also emphasized that the matches will not be confined to a single city, ensuring that the benefits are distributed across both North Queensland and South East Queensland. He believes that events of this magnitude inspire children to participate in football, fill hotel rooms, and support local businesses.

Tickets for the matches will be available for presale starting Wednesday, July 1, with general public sales commencing at 1pm on Thursday, July 2.

Source: nation.com.pk