Dreams Down Under: Frans' football journey from Baghdad to national team

The Australian under-20 national team is promising a great future for Australian soccer. Frans Deli is one of those heroes who joined the squad in late June 2023 and has already played with the team in friendly games against Denmark, England, Norway and Belgium.

Frans (first on L) sitting with the Australian under-20 national team. Credit: Sergio Lopez

Frans and his family sought refuge in Australia after arriving from Baghdad, Iraq, at the age of three. Settling in Sydney, Frans, who had a passion for soccer since childhood, found encouragement from his family to develop his skills. In June 2023, Frans earned a spot on the Australian under-20 national team. Expressing his aspirations, Frans says his main dream is to play alongside the Socceroos and he is working hard to achieve his goal.

Frans (third from the R) in Jubilation after winning a game Credit: Sergio Lopez

Frans plays as a midfielder. Credit: Sergio Lopez