Asian Review: Australia

Wed, 22 Jul, 2026

Asian Review: Australia

Kuala Lumpur: The curtain came down on the FIFA World Cup 2026 with Spain edging Argentina to lift the coveted trophy for the second time in their history.

For Asia's nine representatives, their appearance on the global stage saw highs and lows but more importantly, gave them insights on what needs to be done to stand toe to toe with the world's best.

The teams will be determined to build on their experience and the-AFC.com takes a look at how the Asian sides fared, with Australia kicking off the series.

https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/photo/3185002

https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/photo/3185004

New settings for Furuhashi, Mohammadi, McNamara

Wed, 22 Jul, 2026

New settings for Furuhashi, Mohammadi, McNamara

Kuala Lumpur: Japan international forward Kyogo Furuhashi has joined Major League Soccer outfit LA Galaxy, the club announced on Wednesday.

Islamic Republic of Iran defender Milad Mohammadi will play his club football at Belarus club FC ML Vitebsk with Australian international Holly McNamara joining English side Everton in the Women’s Super League.

Hwang, Araki, Ilhan and Itamura seal moves

Tue, 21 Jul, 2026

Hwang, Araki, Ilhan and Itamura seal moves

Kuala Lumpur: Korea Republic midfielder Hwang In-beom has joined Portuguese champions FC Porto, headlining a series of moves involving Japan duo Mao Itamura and Ryotaro Araki, as well as Singapore international Ilhan Fandi.

Hwang completed his Porto switch from Feyenoord on a three-year contract, with an option for a further season.

Japan maintain position as Asia’s top side

Tue, 21 Jul, 2026

Japan maintain position as Asia’s top side

Kuala Lumpur: Japan moved up one spot to 17th in the FIFA World Rankings after their performance at the recently concluded FIFA World Cup 2026 that saw the Blue Samurai reaching the Round of 16.

The East Asian side claimed a win against Tunisia with stalemates against the Netherlands and Sweden before suffering a last-gasp defeat to five-time champions Brazil in the Round of 32.

Superb Spain worthy winners in showpiece dominated by superstar names

Mon, 20 Jul, 2026

Superb Spain worthy winners in showpiece dominated by superstar names

East Rutherford: It was a FIFA World Cup in which football's biggest names sprinkled stardust over the tournament, yet in the end the trophy deservingly went to a formidable if unspectacular Spain side who were simply too strong, even without Lamine Yamal being at his thrilling best.

 

The 19-year-old winger was the focus of so much attention, but he initially struggled to find full fitness and finished with just one goal, in a group-stage win over Saudi Arabia.

Australia's Beach joins Troyes

Mon, 20 Jul, 2026

Australia's Beach joins Troyes

Melbourne: Australia’s FIFA World Cup goalkeeper Patrick Beach has joined French first division side Troyes from A-League outfit Melbourne City, the club has confirmed.

Beach featured in all four of the Socceroos matches at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after head coach Tony Popovic sprung a surprise in Australia’s opening game against Turkey, selecting the 22-year-old ahead of veteran shot stopper Mathew Ryan.