Unstoppable: The Poweroos Claim Back-to-Back APO Cup Titles
Australia’s national powerchair football team, the Poweroos, have done it again lifting the Asia Pacific Oceania (APO) Powerchair Football Cup trophy after a nail-biting final in Brisbane. With grit, skill and plenty of Aussie spirit, the green-and-gold side defeated Japan 2-1 to secure back-to-back regional titles and qualify for the 2026 FIPFA World Cup in Argentina.
Image courtesy of Joep Buijs Photography
What is the APO Cup?
The APO Cup is the premier international tournament for powerchair football in our region, bringing together the best teams from across Asia and Oceania. More than just a competition, it’s a showcase of tactical skill, teamwork, and inclusion at the highest level of adaptive sport.
For the Poweroos, the Cup is also the crucial gateway to the World Cup — making every pass, spin-kick and goal all the more significant.
The Road to Glory
The Poweroos have steadily built a reputation as one of the world’s toughest teams since their debut at the 2011 World Cup. In 2019, they went undefeated at the APO Cup, not conceding a single goal.
Fast-forward to 2025, and the Australians once again proved their pedigree. Held at Brisbane’s Nissan Arena from 15–17 October, the Cup saw fierce competition from Japan, Korea and New Zealand.
In the final, a thunderous strike from Santo Bongiovanni forced an own goal, while Captain Dimitri Liolio-Davis added another to give the Poweroos a commanding lead. Japan hit back late with a slick set-piece, but the Aussies held firm to close out a 2–1 victory in front of a passionate home crowd.
More Than a Win
For the Poweroos, this title is about more than silverware. It’s a statement of what is possible when opportunity meets determination:
- Elite performance: Powerchair football demands strategy, speed and teamwork at the highest level. The Poweroos’ precision passing and relentless defence showed why they are a global force.
- Inclusion in action: Every match highlights the talent of athletes with disability, breaking barriers and shifting perceptions. As one player put it, “This is football just on wheels.”
- Path to Argentina: The victory secures Australia’s qualification for the 2026 FIPFA World Cup in Buenos Aires, where the Poweroos will face the best teams on the planet.
Image courtesy of Joep Buijs Photography
Spotlight on the Players
The Cup also marked important milestones for individuals in the squad:
- Debutants such as 17-year-old Jack Parry and 18-year-old Ryan Seck stepped onto the international stage with composure beyond their years.
- Veterans like Luke David and Bec Evans led with experience and heart, proving once again why they are the backbone of this team.
- The support crew of coaches, volunteers, families and wheelchair technicians played a vital role every goal is their victory too.
Why It Matters
This win is a reminder that sport is for everyone and that Australia has a chance to lead the world not just on the scoreboard, but in inclusion. With Brisbane set to host the 2032 Paralympic Games, the Poweroos’ success provides powerful momentum for the sport’s push for Paralympic inclusion.
Powerchair football is fast, tactical, and fiercely dynamic. It deserves a place on the biggest stage.
What’s Next for the Poweroos?
The road now leads to Argentina in 2026. Preparation will mean more training camps, international friendlies, and importantly, funding. The Poweroos are a self-funded team, with athletes and families shouldering much of the cost to represent Australia.
That’s where the community comes in.
- Donate: Support the team via the Australian Powerchair Football Association website.
- Get involved: Try powerchair football in your state through local associations in NSW, Victoria and WA - check out the website.
- Share their story: Every post, photo and conversation helps raise awareness and builds momentum towards Paralympic recognition.
Image courtesy of Joep Buijs Photography
A Final Word
When the final whistle blew in Brisbane, the Poweroos didn’t just win a cup they won another step forward for disability sport in Australia.
They showed us the thrill of competition, the pride of wearing green and gold, and the unifying power of sport. And they’re not done yet.
The next stop? Argentina, 2026.
Let’s cheer them on every step of the way.
Blog writtten by Australian Powerchair Football Association. All images are courtesy of Joep Buijs Photography
