Jordan Bos scored a late winner as Australia men’s national soccer team edged past Cameroon national football team 1‑0 in a friendly match on Friday, providing a much‑needed confidence boost ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The match, part of the FIFA Series 2026, took place at Accor Stadium in Sydney and saw Bos net the decisive goal in the 85th minute after a lackluster performance from both sides.
The contest produced few clear opportunities until midway through the second half, and Australia’s momentum took a hit when Ajdin Hrustić missed a penalty, with Cameroon goalkeeper Devis Epassy making the save. Despite the earlier miss, it was Bos who ultimately clinched the victory, capitalising on pressure inside Cameroon’s area and finishing from a pass to lift the hosts.
Australia’s head coach, Tony Popovic, used the friendly to assess some less‑experienced talent, including debutants like 18‑year‑old defender Lucas Herrington and striker Deni Juric. Both players contributed to lively phases early in the match but were unable to change the scoreboard before Bos’s late intervention.
The Socceroos, who endured recent defeats against Venezuela and Colombia, will hope the victory builds momentum as they continue their World Cup warm‑ups. Australia is grouped with co‑hosts the United States and Paraguay at the World Cup, alongside a yet‑to‑be‑determined European nation.
