CANBERRA, Australia — As the Socceroos gear up for their knockout match against Egypt, excitement buzzes through the streets of Australia. Yet, the nation's politicians are notably subdued. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, speaking in Sydney, expressed his fervent support by promising a weeklong holiday if Australia clinches the World Cup. However, his enthusiasm seems scarcely echoed among his political colleagues.

POLITICO's recent query to a dozen ministers and MPs about their thoughts on the upcoming game met with a wall of silence. None were willing to share their views, favorite players, or confirm any travel plans to support the Socceroos. This reticence stems from a lingering unease tied to a 2025 travel spending scandal involving Sports Minister Anika Wells, which almost cost her the position. The incident has left many MPs wary of overseas travel, particularly during parliamentary sessions.

In this cautious atmosphere, Jerome Laxale, a second-term Labor Party member, has unexpectedly become the prominent face representing the government at the matches. His sudden prominence was humorously highlighted at the Australian Parliamentary Press Gallery Midwinter Ball, where his appearance was compared to "subbing in Lionel Messi for a midfielder from Curaçao."

On the other side, three MPs from the conservative Liberal Party disclosed to The Sydney Morning Herald that they were attending the World Cup either by funding their own travel or due to coincidental existing plans. Their participation stands in stark contrast to their Labor counterparts.

Prime Minister Albanese's proposed public holiday hinges on the Socceroos winning the World Cup—an ambitious dream that requires the approval of state governors. This kind of national celebration is rare, with the last impromptu public holiday declared for the mourning of Queen Elizabeth II.

As the Socceroos prepare to battle on the field, their biggest fans in government remain tethered by past controversies, leaving many Australians wondering if their leaders' support is as robust as it should be in such a pivotal moment for the nation's sports history. Meanwhile, the country watches and waits, hoping both for victory on the field and unity off it.