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FIFA World Cup 2022

All the best news and analysis from the tournament in Qatar.

5 stories
Tim Cahill shoots his 2nd goal   during to put Australia into 3-1 lead over Japan at the 2006 Cup in Germany.

World Cup history bars the Socceroos. History, stand down!

History stands four-square in the Socceroos’ path. Four times out of five, they have lost their opening match in the World Cup, and four times they have failed to advance.

  • Greg Baum
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Jude Bellingham starred for England.
  • Updated

FIFA’s armband fiasco a poor curtain-raiser for England’s rout of Iran

Of all the statements made at the Khalifa International stadium, the loudest was made by England in its 6-2 demolition of the potentially dangerous Iran.

  • Greg Baum
Lionel Messi was in a reflective mood at his first press conference of the World Cup.

‘I’ve felt the love so strongly’: Reflective Messi prepares for final bow

When Lionel Messi was confirmed to be speaking at Qatar’s National Convention Centre it suddenly became the hottest ticket in town. The Herald was there.

  • Vince Rugari
Ibrahima Konate clearly doesn’t watch much of the A-League.

‘No, I don’t know them’: French stars blissfully unaware of Socceroos

Fearing a repeat of their lucky escape four years ago, France manager Didier Deschamps has warned his players not to underestimate the Socceroos - even if, as two of them admitted, they have no real idea of who they’re coming up against.

  • Vince Rugari
Before the Socceroos’ last-gasp victory against Peru in June, Graham Arnold says that a lack of support from Australia was having an impact: 
“I honestly feel I can’t do anything right in this country any longer.”

How a dying mum gave Socceroos coach Graham Arnold the kick he needed

A tough childhood, a desire to please his father, a roller-coaster ride as Socceroos coach: on the eve of the World Cup, Graham Arnold reflects on his life.

  • Andrew Webster

Other series

The Sydney Central Business District, Sydney Harbour and Eastern Suburbs and surrounds are seen on 18 February 2025, in Sydney, Australia from a commercial airliner. Picture - Sam Mooy / The Sydney Morning Herald

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Australia's declining fertility rate.

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  • 15 stories