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Did you know? Footballer who scored winning Australian World Cup goal has Maltese roots
Mathew "Mat" Leckie has a Maltese grandmother!

Emma Galea

During last night's World Cup game, Mathew Leckie scored the winning goal against Denmark, securing Australia’s place in the top 16.

Born and raised in St Albans, Melbourne, Mathew actually is a quarter Maltese.

His Maltese grandmother, Loretta Farrugia was the daughter of Catherina and Salvatore "Sam" Farrugia who immigrated to Melbourne in the 1920’s.

The goal was largely celebrated in Australia with many saying that “from now until the end of time, it shall be referred to as The Leckie Goal”.

The 31-year-old football player currently plays for his hometown club at Melbourne City.

The Australian team will now face off Argentina next Saturday in the Round of the 16.

Congratulations Mathew!

Instagram/theballisinyourhalf & Instagram/MathewLeckie

1st December 2022


Emma Galea
Written by
Emma Galea
Emma is a Gozitan writer who loves all things related to English literature and history. When not busy studying or writing you will either find her immersed in a fictional book or at the cinema trying to watch as many films as she possibly can!

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