Socceroos captain Mat Ryan has issued Aussies an apology straight from the heart after his side was sent packing from the FIFA World Cup.
Australia coach Tony Popovic’s surprise move to replace breakout star Patrick Beach with Ryan just moments before the penalty shootout against Egypt drew criticism from many.
Ryan, 34, has since come under fire for his performance in goals for the side’s penalty shootout, with Socceroos fans left furious as a result of his performance.
‘Dreamt of that moment my whole life,’ Ryan said of the penalty shootout.
‘Never have wanted anything more than to have been able to produce and come through for the team and nation in a moment like that.
‘Unfortunately I fell short and am sorry the dream has come to an end as a result.’
Mathew Ryan (pictured right of Tony Popovic) has apologised to Australia after the Socceroos were knocked out of the FIFA World Cup
Ryan (pictured) was unable to guide his side home during the penalty shootout
The 34-year-old (pictured) will now lament what might have been
‘Hurting is an understatement, but I’ll live with it and take the lessons and use them for whatever else life throws at me down the track,’ Ryan continued.
The Socceroos campaign ended in the first round of knockout matches just like in 2022, with the side falling just short yet again.
Despite the frustrating result, Australia has been praised for again emerging from the group stage of the tournament.
Ryan himself is remaining grateful, and has expressed admiration of his side’s performance.
‘Incredibly proud of the team and my teammates for their performances throughout and once again captivating the nation and creating some memories we’ll all never forget,’ Ryan added.
‘To the staff for their commitment to providing the players with all they need to prepare and perform to the best of their abilities.
‘Lastly, to the supporters who are always the ones who make the experiences as special as they are through the ways in which they go about supporting the team.
‘The atmospheres in the stadiums, the footage back home of the live sites and everything in between, making all the triumphant memories all the more special, thank you.
‘Proud Aussie.’
