News Focus
- Paul Okon-Engstler cried during the national anthem before his first World Cup appearance for Australia
- The Sydney FC midfielder provided a crucial assist in the victory over Turkey
- Coach Tony Popovic selected the 21-year-old ahead of veteran Jackson Irvine
- His father, former Socceroo Paul Okon, never played at a World Cup during his playing career
- The emotional scenes unfolded at BC Place in Vancouver during the group stage clash
Paul Okon-Engstler showed the world how much football means to him. The 21-year-old midfielder could not stop the tears flowing before Australia’s World Cup clash with Turkey.
Television cameras captured the Sydney FC star wiping his eyes during the pre-match ceremony in Vancouver. The young Socceroo later admitted the moment felt overwhelming.
“I do not know if you can call those tears,” he said after the match. “But yes, I felt very emotional. This was for me and my family.”
The walk from the tunnel to the pitch triggered his reaction. Okon-Engstler saw thousands of fans inside BC Place Stadium. He also spotted the FIFA World Cup branding everywhere.
“It hit me that I am at a World Cup,” he explained. “This is the highest stage any footballer dreams of. I felt so happy.”
Tony Popovic surprised observers by picking Okon-Engstler in his starting eleven. The coach left experienced midfielder Jackson Irvine on the bench. The decision proved correct.
Okon-Engstler created a goal for Nestory Irankunda during the match. He also worked hard in defence to stop Turkey’s dangerous attackers. The Socceroos kept a clean sheet and won the game.
“The way we defended and fought as a team was special,” Okon-Engstler said. “I think this group can show even more quality.”
The performance proved the strength of the A-League Men. Okon-Engstler has played well for Sydney FC this season. Many people did not expect him to look so comfortable on the world’s biggest stage.
His father watched from the stands with pride. Paul Okon Snr was a famous Australian player in the 1990s. He never played at a World Cup because the Socceroos did not qualify during his career.
Popovic and Okon Snr played together for Australia many years ago. The two friends hugged after the final whistle on Monday.
“We go back a long way,” Popovic said. “He is passionate and emotional. Playing his son today felt special. I pick him because he deserves his place. I have loved this kid since I first brought him into the squad 12 months ago. I knew he had special talent.”
Okon Snr spoke to his son before kick-off. However, he acted as a coach rather than a father.
“My conversation with him was the same as with any other player,” the elder Okon said. “I told him he had a job to do. I said we trust his ability completely. This is the moment you have waited for. It is what you have dreamed of since you were young.”