Poletti 
The Socceroos celebrating a goal against Palestine in Perth during round two of World Cup Qualification. Photo: Aleksandar Jason/Subway Socceroos
The Australian Mens national team is set to have its first ever match at Robina Stadium during the upcoming stage of 2026 FIFA Mens World Cup qualifiers.
The match will take place on Thursday September 5 with the Socceroos hosting Bahrain to kick-off the third round of qualification.
Socceroos coach Graham Arnold said that it is fantastic that the national team continues to play games in new locations to allow more fans around the country to see the national team.
“I often speak with the players about the privilege of representing your nation on home soil, and even more so in your hometown in front of family and friends,” Arnold said.
“We’ve got several players from south-east Queensland and this game represents a special moment for them. It’s also something that can inspire the next generation of Socceroos watching on from the stands.”
He also spoke about the importance of the upcoming qualifiers, saying that it was the beginning of an important period and the side is looking forward to beginning that on the Gold Coast.
Football Australia CEO James Johnson said that the FA are thrilled to bring the match to the Gold Coast.
“This is a key moment for football in the region and for the Socceroos as we enter the business end of World Cup qualification,” Johnson said.
“Our strategic focus is to qualify directly and continue to build the Socceroos’ brand on the world stage, drive interest domestically and abroad, and build the profiles of our current and emerging stars. This match against Bahrain at Robina Stadium is a crucial step in that journey.
“The Gold Coast and surrounding areas have long been a hotbed for producing talent – many of whom have gone on to represent our men’s and women’s national teams – and we know just how strong the football community is in south-east Queensland.
“To bring an international fixture of this calibre and importance to the Gold Coast is something we’re really excited about.”
The third round of World Cup qualification will see the Socceroos play home and away against Bahrain, China, Indonesia, Japan, and Saudi Arabia, with the top two teams from the group advancing to the World Cup.
The third and fourth place teams in the group move on to the fourth round of qualification.
A kick-off time for the Bahrain match is to be confirmed at a later date.