Aussie Focus

Fans greet Socceroos in Sydney, Melbourne after memorable World Cup campaign

Fans have flocked to airports in both Sydney and Melbourne to welcome members of the Socceroos squad back from their incredible FIFA World Cup campaign in Qatar.

Jamie Maclaren poses with a Socceroos fan after returning to Australia

Jamie Maclaren poses with a Socceroos fan after returning to Australia

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Australia exceeded expectations at the 2022 tournament, where they reached the Round of 16 for just the second time in history before bowing out to Argentina.

Marco Tilio, Thomas Deng and Jamie Maclaren landed in Melbourne on Monday evening, while Garang Kuol, Mathew Ryan, Cameron Devlin, Jason Cummings and Andrew Redmayne touched down in Sydney.
The players were met by their friends and family as well as a sea of fans keen to show their appreciation for what was accomplished in Qatar.

"It's a great feeling to know we had such an impact on our Aussies," Maclaren said.

"We played against one of the best teams and the best players who have played the game.

"We can hold our heads high and know that it's been the best finish that a Socceroos team has had at a World Cup.

"Now, that's the standard, (and) I think the younger generation should really drive and uphold those standards."
Deng, meanwhile, said his World Cup experience was one he'd never forget.

"It was really amazing," Deng said. "It is a dream come true for me and for many others.

"This is our first World Cup for a lot of the young boys that are coming in. It's just something we are never going to forget."

Coach Graham Arnold's future remains up in the air despite his side's achievements over the last two weeks, with his contract reaching its end following full-time in Al-Rayyan.

The 59-year-old admitted he hasn't given much thought to his next steps but would prefer to enjoy a well-deserved before reconvening with Football Australia chief executive James Johnson.

"I just want to go away, have a good holiday, have a break and see what happens," Arnold said after the Argentina game.

"I haven't even thought about it (my future). I need a rest and no doubt I will have good discussions then with the organisation."

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Fans greet Socceroos in Sydney, Melbourne after memorable World Cup campaign | SBS FIFA World Cup 2022