Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020

Mat Ryan Socceroos World Cup hopes received a strong public lift on the eve of Australia’s FIFA Series clash with Cameroon, with Socceroos great Mark Schwarzer declaring the veteran goalkeeper remains the leading option to start for Tony Popovic’s side at this year’s World Cup. Schwarzer made the comments ahead of Friday night’s match at Accor Stadium in Sydney, where Australia continue their final stretch of preparation before heading to North America in June. The discussion matters because the battle for the No.1 shirt has become one of the biggest selection questions in the squad over the past 18 months.

Since Popovic took charge in September 2024, Paul Izzo, Patrick Beach and Joe Gauci have all been used at different times ahead of national captain Ryan. That rotation has added real intrigue to the race, even with Ryan returning in good form for Levante in Spain’s top flight. Australia’s current 26-man squad for games against Cameroon and Curacao includes Ryan, Beach and Izzo, keeping the goalkeeper picture firmly in focus.

That growing competition is part of a wider World Cup build-up for the national side, alongside broader tournament storylines such as 2026 World Cup Jerseys: Best and Worst Kits Set to Turn Heads. For Australia, though, the issue is less about style and more about trust, rhythm and experience in a role that can shape a whole tournament. With only a short run left before June, every selection call now carries extra weight.

Schwarzer backs Ryan while supporting Popovic's calls

Schwarzer, who made a record 109 appearances for Australia and featured at the 2006 and 2010 World Cups, said Ryan still leads the field. “As a goalkeeper, I used to hate it, and I’m sure Maty hates it as well, because he wants to play every game, we all do,” Schwarzer said ahead of the Socceroos’ clash on Friday night against the Cameroonians at Sydney’s Accor Stadium. “We’re selfish but you also know the bigger picture. That’s just the reality of the game today, and that’s what the manager needs to do because there’s a lot of time between now and the start of the World Cup (in June), so players can get injured.”

“Hopefully no-one does, but players can get injured, so you have to make sure everyone’s up to speed. everyone has their exposure.” Schwarzer’s point was clear. Ryan may not enjoy sitting out, but Popovic’s handling of the position has given Australia a broader set of options if something changes before the World Cup.

Ryan still leads the race for the No.1 shirt

Schwarzer was firm when asked where Ryan stands in the pecking order. “Maty’s obviously the standout candidate. He’s been number one for a long period of time, he’s the captain of the national team, he’s the most experienced player in the squad, this is going be his fourth World Cup,” the former Middlesbrough and Fulham keeper said. Those factors still matter heavily in tournament football, where calm decision-making and command of the back line can settle a team under pressure.

“He has a wealth of experience, but what ‘Popa’ (Popovic) has made very clear right from the beginning, (is that) it doesn’t matter who you are, everyone needs to be on their toes, everyone needs to get pushed.” Ryan’s recent club form has only strengthened his case. “Maty has stepped up. Maty’s been exceptional for Levante in La Liga. Every time he’s played for the Socceroos, he’s never let the Socceroos down, but you also want that competition.”

Popovic earns praise for changing the mood

Schwarzer also credited Popovic for lifting standards since taking over the national side. In his view, the coach has brought sharper internal competition and a clearer message about what playing for Australia demands. That shift has shown in both team selection and the way players have responded in camp.

“He has come in and shook things up a little bit, also reminding people what it means to play for the national team, and that (World Cup) qualification is not granted, it’s not guaranteed, you have to earn it,” he said. “The performances and togetherness the team has shown has been outstanding.” For official team updates and fixture information, fans can also follow Football Australia.

The next few matches may still shape details around the squad, but Schwarzer’s view leaves little doubt about the man he sees as first in line. Ryan has challengers, and Popovic has made sure of that. But with the World Cup edging closer, Australia’s long-time captain still looks like the goalkeeper most trusted to start when the biggest stage arrives.