Nita Green (Queensland, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

What a day for historic wins it was on Saturday! Not only did the Andrews Labor government secure a third term in Victoria but of course our Socceroos made World Cup history. For the first time in 12 years, the Socceroos won a game at the FIFA World Cup. It's been 12 long years between victories, and it was incredible to watch. It was our first clean sheet at a World Cup since 1974. It was an exciting game, as the scenes that we saw in Fed Square attested to, with supporters putting on an amazing display of joy and national pride.

It was a game that allowed some of our very best talent from all across the country to shine, but I want to make special mention of Maty Ryan, our captain, and Milos Degenek, Danny Vukovic and Aaron Mooy—fellow Westfield Sports High alumni. I ended up in the Senate. They ended up at the World Cup. I think they got the better deal! I also want to acknowledge big Harry's 86th-minute save against Tunisia. He cemented his place as a legend in our game with that split-second decision. This was in only his third senior match since he ruptured his ACL late last year. It was good to see him back on the field. Congratulations, of course, to Mitchell Duke for scoring the winning goal that put Australia in the box seat for our game against Denmark this week.

To the Socceroos: you united a nation across the other side of the world. As for what is next, I know that I will be up at 2 am this Thursday to watch our Socceroos play Denmark. If my colleagues could take that into account while we are sitting, I would appreciate it greatly! Thank you so much to Football Australia and to the PFA, and to the Socceroos for inspiring us not only by what you did on the pitch the other night but through everything that you do off the pitch as well. We are 100 per cent with you. Go get them!