Australia's 2-0 win against Turkiye in their World Cup opener sparked tears of joy from Socceroos' assistant coach Paul Okon. The emotional moment came when Connor Metcalfe scored Australia's second goal.
What happened?
Okon's son, Paul Okon-Engstler, played a key role in the match, assisting Nestory Irankunda's opening goal and playing with composure beyond his years.
Why it matters for Australia
The win was a significant moment for the Socceroos, with Okon's emotional reaction highlighting the team's hard work and dedication.
What comes next?
The Socceroos will look to build on their winning start as they face their next opponents in the World Cup. | Date | Opponent | Venue | | --- | --- | --- | | June 20 | | | Okon's own relationship with the World Cup and the Socceroos also adds to the emotional story. He played 28 times for the national team and was part of the Australian team that made it to the bronze medal match at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. But at senior level, his World Cup dream was never fulfilled until now. The defender was captain when the Socceroos suffered the heartbreak of losing an intercontinental playoff to Uruguay in 2001. Okon would not be there when Guus Hiddink's side extracted revenge four years later and ended the nation's 32-year World Cup drought. Regardless, his dreams came true in Vancouver. To do it with his son by his side made it even more special. Tony Popovic, the Socceroos boss, praised Okon-Engstler's performance, saying he played him because he deserved to play. Popovic also praised Okon, saying he's passionate and emotional. The win was a landmark moment for the Socceroos, with Okon's emotional reaction a highlight of the match. The team will look to build on their winning start as they face their next opponents in the World Cup.
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