Australia's World Cup clash with Paraguay is set to bring parts of Sydney to a standstill, as schools and offices pause for the crucial group-stage match.
Schools in Sydney, including Endeavour Sports High and Westfields Sports High, are expected to pause classwork to screen Australia's final group-stage World Cup match on Friday. Offices are also anticipated to see reduced productivity as workers take sick leave or work from home to watch the game.
Key Details
- The match is against Paraguay and will start at noon.
- Westfields Sports High has produced players for every men's World Cup since 2006, including current squad members Milos Degenek, Maty Ryan, and Patrick Beach.
- Students at Endeavour Sports High are encouraged to wear green and gold mufti.
- The Clovelly Hotel has been booked out for the event.
- Wet weather is expected, but fans plan to watch regardless.
Statements from the Community
"I want to be one of those great names to come out of Westfields." — Westfields goalie Ryan Di Bona, 17, on his aspiration to follow the legacy of past alumni.
"We are definitely going to win. It should be a public holiday." — Juliet Kacen, 9, predicting a win for Australia.
"We've got a very good chance of getting the win and going deep into the tournament." — Endeavour football team captain Toby Tindale, 17, expressing confidence in the team's success.
Dionn Nigro, a midfielder, has been selected for the under-17 national team (Joeys) and will play in China next week.