Tens of thousands pack live sites around Australia to watch Socceroos

It was an early morning for many Australians as they packed out live sites to watch the Socceroos play out a 2-1 loss to Argentina in the Round of 16 of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

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A view of fans in Darling Harbour's Tumbalong Park.

It was the first time in 16 years that the Socceroos had made the FIFA World Cup Round of 16, and the nation turned out in force to celebrate the moment, packing live sites around the country.

Federation Square had been the main place for fans to congregate in unofficial live sites during the Socceroos' previous group stage matches, but it was a more organised affair this time around.
Flare and fireworks provided a heavily lit backdrop to the crowds, with the square packed to capacity an hour before kickoff and fans diverted towards AAMI Park, with an estimated 20,000 in the stands watching a number of big screens set up near the fences.
Police were pleased with the behaviour of most fans with the main incident of note being the deploying of pepper spray to stop additional crowds entering Federation Square.

Tumbalong Park in Darling Harbour was the spot for most Sydney Socceroos fans, thousands showing up to cheer on Australia, with some vocal pockets of Argentina fans ultimately singing the loudest post-match.
Over 18,000 people made their way into Tumbalong Park for the match, the enthusiasm of the fans dampened by Argentina's two goals, then reignited for the Socceroos' comeback.
Around the major cities, it was similar sights in Adelaide (Telstra Plaza), Brisbane (King Georges Square), Canberra (Civic Plaza), Perth (Northbridge Plaza) and Newcastle (Wheeler Place).

Brisbane, King Georges Square
Perth, Northbridge Plaza

Canberra, Civic Square

Adelaide, Telstra Plaza

Newcastle, Wheeler Place



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2 min read
Published 4 December 2022 2:02pm
Updated 4 December 2022 2:09pm
Source: SBS


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