Community cohesion was on full display at the event on Sunday, June 14, as families supporting both nations came together to watch the Group D fixture being held in Vancouver, Canada, which was streamed on the big screen.
The Socceroos put on an inspired display, with Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe providing the goals en route to a famous 2-0 win.
Spectators donning Australia and Türkiye jerseys sat side by side at the Showgrounds in a display of unity, with dignitaries including City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali in attendance.
A family atmosphere was fostered at the alcohol-free event, with a children’s activity zone having been installed for the festivities, as food trucks also provided refreshments for those present.
Speaking to the News on the day, Cr Sali spoke with pride as he expressed his hope that that the next generation of players would have been left feeling inspired by the heroics of their soccer idols.
“Obviously, it’s been great to see two really passionate teams going at it,” he said.
“We’ve got such a strong Turkish community here and I think, regardless of the result, if we can bring people together, have that community cohesion, then Greater Shepparton is the winner.
“We do sport extremely well and it isn’t just about the game, it was about the family connection and giving the kids an opportunity.
“Having the food trucks set up, the skill zone, making it family friendly, it’s been a really good afternoon.”
Also at the event was GV Suns head coach Craig Carley, who described the event as “amazing”.
“It was amazing to see so many kids outside playing at the inflatable pitch and to see so many people inside watching the game,” he said.
“Australia were absolutely brilliant and the game plan and style of play, I thought was great to see — fair play to Tony Popovic in putting his faith in those young players.
“It’s amazing to see how far football is developing here in Australia and hopefully we can get a few more positive results in the World Cup and push on!”
The tactical mastermind singled out Socceroos goalscorer Irankunda for praise for his heroics in the victory, as he fondly recalled first watching the winger in action at the AFC under-17s Asian Cup qualification tournament in Shepparton in 2022.
“I remember watching that tournament very fondly and you could see he had that X-factor during that tournament,” Carley said.
“He was brilliant there and obviously he’s gone on to continue to develop and backed himself. He’s very, very authentic and plays with absolute courage.”
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