Socceroos Recall Captain Mat Ryan, Add Playmaker Alex Robertson for Canada, USA Friendlies

The Socceroos have announced their squad for upcoming friendlies against Canada and the United States, marking the return of captain and goalkeeper Mat Ryan after rejoining club Levante. The squad also features the return of players Daniel Arzani, Mitch Duke, Jason Geria, and newcomers Nicholas D’Agostino, Cameron Devlin, and Alex Robertson, the latter ending an almost two-year absence amid eligibility speculation involving Peru, Scotland, and England. Coach Tony Popovic emphasized that these matches against two World Cup hosts will provide valuable preparation and momentum toward next year's tournament. Several players from the previous "Soccer Ashes" series squad were omitted, and notably, no A-League players were selected. Popovic highlighted the importance of continuity and challenging the team to make an impact on the world stage. Meanwhile, in Australian rules football, Collingwood’s Bobby Hill and former North Melbourne player Tarryn Thomas have surprised fans by participating in the Victorian Aboriginal Community Services Association Carnival, with Hill returning after personal issues interrupted his AFL season.