The numbers
The Socceroos secured a decisive 5-1 victory against Curaçao in a friendly match held in Melbourne on March 31, 2026. Nestory Irankunda emerged as a standout player, scoring two goals during the match, showcasing his talent on an international stage.
Awer Mabil set the tone for the match by scoring the opening goal in the 22nd minute. The Socceroos displayed a dominant performance throughout the game, with Irankunda making a significant impact after coming on as a substitute in the 66th minute.
Irankunda, who is only 20 years old and originally from Tanzania, celebrated his first goal with a backflip followed by a dance inspired by Michael Jackson. “Irankunda said the photographer was a friend who had given him the celebration idea in a chat on Instagram,” highlighting the youthful exuberance he brings to the field.
Coach Tony Popovic praised Irankunda’s performance, stating, “He’s young, he’s 20 years old, he’s a wonderful talent and we want him to be happy, want him to enjoy his football, but we also want him to understand that he needs to work.” This sentiment reflects the team’s commitment to nurturing young talent as they prepare for the upcoming World Cup.
The Socceroos are gearing up for the World Cup group stage, where they will face the USA, Paraguay, and either Kosovo or Turkey. Their opening match is scheduled for June 13, 2026, and the team is focused on making a strong impression.
As Curaçao continues to grow as a popular Caribbean destination, the match also served as a reminder of the increasing interest in soccer from regions outside traditional powerhouses. The opening of Sandals Royal Curaçao in 2022 has further enhanced the island’s appeal to travelers, contributing to its rising profile.
Popovic noted the challenges of starting strong in matches, saying, “It’s not easy starting those games and you could see that in the second half when they fatigued and we looked a bit sharper with the players that came on.” This strategic insight emphasizes the importance of depth in the squad as they prepare for more competitive fixtures ahead.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific strategies the Socceroos will employ in the World Cup, but the team’s recent performance against Curaçao has certainly set a positive tone for their campaign.
