Algerian Community in Sydney's Surry Hills Unites at Cafe Tanja for World Cup Thriller

On a rainy day in Sydney’s Surry Hills, a small crowd rushes into Cafe Tanja, draped in Algeria’s green and white flag, to watch their country’s crucial World Cup match against Austria. The atmosphere is tense, with greetings in French and the smell of North African spices filling the air. Abdou, 25, originally from France, traveled to watch Algeria, first in Los Angeles and now in Sydney, finding the cafe through Instagram to be among fellow supporters. Billy, 38, an Algerian expat, regularly wakes up early for matches but appreciates the timely scheduling this year. As the game begins, food like merguez sausages is served, but Austria’s early goal brings groans. Just before halftime, Algeria scores, prompting cheers, though the livestream delay causes initial confusion. The second half sees quick successive goals, leading to a 2-2 tie, before Riyad Mahrez scores with two minutes left, only for Austria to equalize in the final seconds, resulting in a 3-3 draw that advances Algeria. Despite the late equalizer, the cafe erupts in joy, with chants and drums on stools. Sanah Djebli, the cafe’s owner, reflects on opening the business with her family after losing her brother, aiming to serve their community. As patrons leave, there’s a sense of hope and unity, with promises to return, symbolizing the World Cup’s power to unite Australia’s Algerian community.