Sports 14 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Australia's Jason Geria, with Ugandan roots, shines at the World Cup
Jason Geria, an Australian right-back with Ugandan heritage, has made a significant impact for the Socceroos at the World Cup. His journey, marked by a national team debut eight years after his first cap, highlights a career built on persistence. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/uganda-twin-geria-makes-mark-for-australia-at-world-cup--5495900
Jason Geria, a 33-year-old defender for the Australian national football team, has recently earned his international recognition on the world stage. Geria, whose parents both hold Ugandan nationality, qualified to represent the Socceroos. He received his first cap in 2016 under coach Ange Postecoglou, but it wasn’t until late 2024 that he became a regular fixture in the squad under new coach Tony Popovic.
Geria’s inclusion in the World Cup squad marks a career milestone after years of dedication. “I’m still pinching myself, honestly, that I’m part of the final 26 in here in base camp and in preparing for a World Cup,” Geria expressed, reflecting on his perseverance. He made his World Cup debut in Australia’s 2-0 victory over Turkey.
The defender’s family history is rooted in Uganda. His father, Moses Geria, moved from Arua to Australia in the early 1980s for university and later sought asylum. He eventually settled and started his family in Australia. “Geria is from Maracha district. The grandfather is still alive (and) currently resides in Mvara, Arua City,” noted columnist Godfrey Drabe. Geria occasionally visits Uganda during holiday festivities.
Geria’s path to the World Cup also saw him represent Australia at various youth levels, including the 2013 FIFA U-20 World Cup and the 2016 AFC U-23 Championship. Despite missing out on previous senior World Cup squads in 2018 and 2022, his consistent performances under Popovic have paved the way for this opportunity.