Socceroos’ African heritage offers timely reminder of Australia’s diversity | Jack Snape

Culture and community helped Mo Touré and Nestory Irankunda become the footballers they are today – and their spark may ignite this World Cup

One hails from West Africa, born in Guinea after his family fled Liberia. The other comes from the east of the continent, taking his first breath in a Tanzanian refugee camp after his parents escaped Burundi.

Longtime friends Mo Touré, 22, and Nestory Irankunda, 20, are shining beacons for Australia’s African community, and a reminder that the Socceroos – despite ongoing political rhetoric demonising migrants – are a symbol of modern Australia. The pair’s connection is the spark set to ignite the national team at next month’s World Cup in North America.