The numbers
In a commanding display, the Socceroos secured a 5-1 victory against Curaçao during a friendly match held in Melbourne on March 31, 2026. Nestory Irankunda emerged as a standout player, scoring two goals and showcasing his talent on the international stage.
The match kicked off with Awer Mabil netting the opening goal for the Socceroos in the 22nd minute, setting the tone for a dominant performance. Irankunda, who came on as a substitute in the 66th minute, celebrated his first goal with a backflip and a dance inspired by Michael Jackson, demonstrating both his skill and flair.
At just 20 years old, Irankunda has already made a name for himself in the soccer world. Born in Tanzania, he became Australia’s second-youngest player to score an international goal during a World Cup qualifier against Palestine two years earlier. His recent performance against Curaçao further solidifies his status as a rising star in the sport.
Coach Tony Popovic praised the team’s performance, noting the impact of the substitutes in the second half. “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,” he remarked. Popovic also expressed his confidence in Irankunda, 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.”
Curaçao, known for its beautiful Caribbean landscapes, has seen a rise in popularity as a travel destination in recent years. The opening of the Sandals Royal Curaçao in 2022 has further enhanced the island’s appeal to tourists. This friendly match provided an opportunity for the Socceroos to showcase their skills while also highlighting the growing recognition of Curaçao in the sports arena.
Looking ahead, the Socceroos are gearing up for the World Cup, where they will face the USA, Paraguay, and either Kosovo or Turkey in the group stage. Their opening match is set for June 13, 2026, and the team is determined to make a significant impact in the tournament.
As the excitement builds for the upcoming World Cup, observers are eager to see how the Socceroos will perform on the global stage. With players like Irankunda leading the charge, the team aims to be a formidable contender, with aspirations of going all the way to potentially win the World Cup. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the final roster and strategies, but the momentum from this friendly match certainly sets a positive tone for the challenges ahead.