Australia's Harry Kewell, center, is cheered by teammates after he scored their side's second goal during the Croatia v Australia match at the World Cup Gottlieb-Daimler stadium in Stuttgart, Germany, Thursday, June 22, 2006. AP Photo/Winfried Rothermel
The World Cup might be just around the corner, but I think it is time we spend a moment looking back four years ago to the events of Germany 2006.
I remember when John Aloisi scored the penalty against Uruguay six months earlier as the whole nation came alive. It didn’t matter who you were that night; we were all Australian and for one moment multiculturalism didn’t exist as we were all brothers and sisters of the greatest nation in the world.
I remember seeing Federation Square in Melbourne packed with people rejoicing, brothers in arms – no fighting, just united as Australians celebrated the Socceroos first win in a World Cup against Japan.
I remember when the nation’s heart sunk when Croatia scored within minutes of the decisive group match and the people who stereotyped by saying “Australians are no good at football”. I remember the feeling that we will never come back from this.
Of course I remember when Harry Kewell scored and the world watched in disbelief as the mighty Croatians were sent home early.
I remember three yellow cards for Simunic, the man who had turned his back on Australia after being trained by the AIS.
I remember Italy and the heartbreak of the controversial penalty that we all suffered together, when the round ball hit the back of the net.
I remember Australia showing the world true Aussie spirit and that we can play football.
I’m proud of our Socceroos, and it has been four years since and we’re back to show the world we can defy the odds again.
I wish the Socceroos all the luck in South Africa and I will always remember how they united the nation together.
It shouldn’t matter what code you follow or your background, if you call Australia your home then join us in supporting the Socceroos at this World Cup.
I remember these things because I’m an Australian and I shall never forget.
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