Awer Mabil: from refugee to representing Australia at the 2026 World Cup

 Australian footballer Awer Mabil couldn't hold back his emotions during a recent press conference as he recalled his past. His emotional reaction was the result of recalling his difficult youth as a refugee and the opportunity of a lifetime that Australia had given him. This all happened when he saw David Basheer, a commentator on the Australian network SBS, who asked him a question. Mabil, born in Kakuma, Kenya, came to Australia 20 years ago as a ten-year-old under a humanitarian resettlement program. He started his football career in Adelaide, South Australia. As he himself emphasized, his story is especially important during Refugee Week. Mabil emphasizes that football is for everyone, regardless of origin, and reminds us of the power of perseverance and striving for a goal. "This is the week I would like to dedicate to all those who are displaced around the world," he said. "We are on the world stage, in a big tournament, and I want to say that anything is possible, so don't give up." Mabil, as an ambassador of diversity, took part in a video promoting diversity before the World Cup, which became very popular. "Coincidentally, Refugee Week takes place simultaneously with the World Cup and we have many refugees in the team. Looking back, I feel that we all belong to this world together," he added. "Now we represent Australia." Mabil considers himself a "big brother" to teammates Mo Touré and Nestory Irankunda, who are also African refugees. 20-year-old Irankunda became the youngest player to score for the Socceroos at the World Cup in their match against Turkey. The Australians want to show how far they have come at World Cup level. "Hopefully we're starting to get a little more respect," said defender Alessandro Circati. Mabil intends to help the Socceroos build something special. "I'm proud of the boys," he said. “A lot of the young guys who are making a difference for the national team now are from Adelaide, which is a credit to the football community.” --- ## Related Articles 1. [Mga nangungunang FIFA Power Rankings matapos ang Matchday 10 sa World Cup 2026](https://azkalsgoal.com/fil/news/mga-nangungunang-fifa-power-rankings-matapos-ang-matchday-10-sa-world-cup-2026) 2. [World Cup 2026](https://azkalsgoal.com/fil/news/sinusubaybayan-usa-at-mexico-pasok-na-sa-knockout-stage-ng-world-cup-2026-alamin-ang-mga-koponan-na-pasok-at-tanggal-na)