Melbourne love proclaiming itself the sports capital of Australia seems some fans forget to check their A-League allegiances at the door when supporting the Socceroos. The 7-0 victory against Bangladesh on Thursday was perfect. Graham Arnold’s team kicked off their 2026 World Cup qualification campaign with ease. Jamie Maclaren bagged a hat-trick, Mitch Duke and Brandon Borrello were effective. Harry Souttar reminded everyone of his set-piece finishing. Massimo Luongo’s stoppage-time penalty was saved. Socceroos fans wanted to see a goal from Kusini Yengi, who has made a decent start at Portsmouth. Finding a new imposing striker is essential for the team.
Some fans in the stands alleged Maclaren was booed. Older fans would have told those who aimed club-based chants at the national team to stop. The Socceroos pledged to donate a percentage of their match fees to humanitarian aid. It’s a shame some fans can’t leave their club allegiances at the door when supporting the national team.