CANBERRA — From the outset, the U.S. vs. Australia match in the Bush Capital was marked by disappointment, culminating in an effortless victory for the American team.
Despite local enthusiasm, neither of Canberra’s Socceroos were included in the starting lineup. The local government’s failure to set up an outdoor viewing area for the match, despite a vigorous social media campaign by residents, added to the frustration. The absence of federal politicians, who were away in their districts, left the campaign without influential support, causing it to go unnoticed.
This situation led to thousands congregating in inner city pubs and at the University of Canberra, venues that had been granted special trading hours starting at 4:30 a.m. for the match.
Australian politicians, who were vocal supporters before the match, quickly fell silent following an own goal by Australia just 11 minutes into the game.
Despite the subdued atmosphere due to the lackluster performance of the Australian team, the crowd found a moment of unity in booing Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. His appearance during the match broadcast drew jeers, as he is not well-regarded in Australia, a country that strictly enforced Covid lockdowns and vaccinations.
