Bring it on Lionel Messi! The Socceroos will continue their 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign with a knock-out match against Argentina in Qatar on Sunday morning (Australian time) for a spot in the quarter-finals.
The national team has delighted us and the footballing world by beating Tunisia and Denmark to reach the round of 16 for the first time since 2006.
The match begins at 6am (AEDT).
If you plan to wake up early to watch the team from the comfort of your bed or living room, SBS is your best bet.
But if you feel like getting out there and being surrounded by throngs of fellow Socceroos supporters, decked out in green and gold, here are some venues across the city to take in the action:
Federation Square
It was the scene of wild celebrations when Australia beat Denmark on Thursday morning and the iconic Melbourne location opposite Flinders Street Station will again be featuring the match on the big screen. Thousands are expected to attend.
Federation Square has space for about 10,000 people and there are concerns there will not be enough room for all those planning to attend Sunday’s game.
The deputy chief executive of Melbourne Arts Precinct Corporation, which runs Fed Square, said there will be “safety measures in place including a strong police presence, increased security, first aid and assistance”.
Fans celebrate at Federation Square as they watch Australia’s 1-0 win over Denmark at the World Cup on ThursdayCredit:Luis Enrique Ascui
AAMI Park
The home of Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City is likely to open its doors to Socceroos fans to watch the blockbuster clash, but plans were still being finalised on Friday afternoon.
Yarraville Pop-Up Park
The match will be screened at the popular park on Ballarat Street in Yarraville, near the Sun Theatre. It’s free and is a family-friendly, alcohol-free zone.
Rippleside Park in Geelong
The City of Greater Geelong will host a family-friendly event at the beachside park with a big screen broadcasting the match live. The grounds will open at 5.30am.
The hanging lights at the intersection of Moorabool and Malop streets will also turn green and gold on Saturday night.
Railway Reserve, Footscray
Maribyrnong City Council is opening up Railway Reserve on McNab Avenue for the big game. The event is alcohol-free and is a perfect opportunity for families to gather to watch the Socceroos in a relaxed space.
Members of the Darebin Falcons football club are getting ready to cheer the Socceroos on in the World Cup.Credit:Chris Hopkins
Harmony Square, Dandenong
Fans will be able to gather in Harmony Square on Lonsdale Street to watch the match on a big screen.
The Crafty Squire, Melbourne CBD
The Squire on Russell Street has multiple screens to enjoy watching the soccer. But don’t be late – it is first come, first served.
The Imperial, Melbourne CBD
Across the road from Parliament House, the Imperial will be a popular pub to cheer on the Socceroos.
Sports Bar at Crown
The bar at Crown Casino will also be showing the match, along with the NBA for those who like to multitask.
The Great Northern, Carlton
The Carlton pub will be open from 5am on Sunday for the special occasion. The kitchen will be serving mini burgers and bacon and egg rolls.
The Sporting Globe, Richmond
The Globe will open at 5.30am, so there is time to enjoy some breakfast from the kitchen before kick-off.
The Castle Hotel, North Melbourne
Drop in to the Castle just before 6am and feast on some toasted sandwiches while you watch the match.
Lido, Classic and Cameo cinemas
For a more comfortable setting, Lido cinema in Hawthorn and its sister cinemas, the Classic in Elsternwick and the Cameo in Belgrave, are opening early for the soccer. Tickets are $10 and the price of admission includes a small popcorn.
The Castle Hotel
The North Melbourne venue will be offering beer specials as they air the match at 6am.
