Australian football fans are generating significant pre-match energy in Dallas, Texas, as the Socceroos prepare for their World Cup knockout stage match against Egypt. The team has reached this stage for the third consecutive time, and fans are making their presence felt.
Supporters were observed inside a popular supermarket chain, Walmart, chanting "sha la la la, ohh Aussie boys" and "na na na na na na na, ohhhhhh Aussie Boys." Festivities included drinks being thrown and fans jumping on surfaces within the store. Notably, Australian music artist Iggy Azalea was reportedly seen participating in a "shoey" with fans. A shoey involves drinking a beverage, often alcoholic, from a shoe.
These celebrations follow earlier fan activities, including an incident at a Texas Rangers baseball game where a fan made a barehanded catch of a foul ball. The Socceroos aim to secure their first-ever knockout victory in the World Cup, facing an Egypt side led by Mohamed Salah.
The Socceroos secured their spot in the knockout phase after a draw against Paraguay, which clinched them second place in Group D. This result followed a loss to the USA and a win against Turkiye. The team has faced criticism for a lack of attacking impetus in recent matches, failing to score in their last two outings.
Egypt, meanwhile, secured a draw against Belgium, though Belgium has underperformed in the tournament. The Socceroos' performance against Paraguay has been highlighted as a potential blueprint for success in their upcoming match.