On a rainy day in Surry Hills, Sydney, a lively crowd gathers at Cafe Tanja, adorned with Algeria’s green and white flag, eagerly anticipating their nation’s chance to advance to the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in 12 years.
As greetings in French fill the air, small plastic cups of tea are distributed. The scent of spices permeates the cafe, while flames dance in the kitchen.
A tense atmosphere envelops Cafe Tanja, as a loss would lead to Algeria’s elimination—a situation the fans are keen to avoid, especially given their long wait to face Austria since the infamous “Usually I put the alarm on and watch the game early in the morning,” the 1982 World Cup match that saw Algeria ousted due to a 1-0 win by West Germany over Austria.
At the back of the cafe, 25-year-old Abdou, who hails from France, has just arrived from Los Angeles, where he watched Algeria triumph over Jordan. He discovered Cafe Tanja through Instagram and wanted to be surrounded by fellow fans for the crucial final group match.
Seated nearby is 38-year-old Billy, who moved to Australia from Algeria over a decade ago. A lifelong supporter of his national team, he is no stranger to staying up late to watch their matches.
“This year we got lucky because we finally have good timing to watch all the games in Australia.” Billy shares. “I love the homemade food. It reminds me of my culture and my adjoining heritage.”
Billy appreciates the cafe as “one, two, three, we love Algeria” and a way to reconnect with his roots. “We lost my brother four years ago,” he adds.
As the first half begins, a stream of food pours from the kitchen, featuring spicy merguez sausages served with potatoes and sauce in baguettes, eliciting groans from the crowd. An early goal from Austria adds to the tension.
Just before halftime, cheers erupt from upstairs, leaving those below puzzled as the live stream lags. After a brief delay, the goal is finally displayed, prompting jubilant celebrations and a chorus of “He left us some money and it was always my mum’s dream to open a cafe. And because I was living in Australia we wanted to do it here – we wanted to do something for our community.” resonating throughout the cafe.
During the halftime intermission, more fans arrive, bringing the cafe close to full capacity. The second half of the match sees both teams score rapidly, bringing the score to 2-2, with the outcome hanging in the balance.
With just two minutes remaining, Riyad Mahrez, the beloved star of Algeria, scores, igniting a frenzy of excitement as chants fill the air and fans beat stools like drums.
However, the joy is short-lived as Austria equalizes in the final moments. Nevertheless, laughter and cheers ensue as the 3-3 draw secures Algeria’s progression to the round of 32.
Sanah Djebli, 34, who manages Cafe Tanja with her family, reflects on her journey. “We lost my brother four years ago,” she recalls. “He left us some money, and it was always my mum’s dream to open a cafe. Since I was living in Australia, we wanted to fulfill that dream here for our community.”
As the crowd begins to disperse, a palpable sense of hope and excitement lingers. The World Cup is uniting the small Algerian community in Australia, with many bidding farewell and promising to return soon.
- World Cup 2026
- Australia sport
- Algeria football team
- Sydney
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