Victoria’s World Cup journeyman Matthew Leckie is set to join rare company, becoming just the third Australian men's player to feature at four FIFA World Cups.
Already one of Australia's most decorated internationals, Leckie has represented the Socceroos at Brazil 2014, Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022, where he produced one of the most iconic moments in Australian football history with his match-winning goal against Denmark that secured the nation's place in the knockout stages.
While Leckie's achievements have made him a household name across Australia, his football story began much closer to home at Bulleen Lions.
Long before he was starring on the world stage, Leckie was developing his craft in Victoria, making 27 senior appearances for the Lions and quickly establishing himself as one of the country's brightest young talents.
One person who witnessed Leckie's rise firsthand was former Bulleen Lions Chairman Pat Saladino, who recalled a teenager destined for bigger things.
"Back in 2009 we had some A-League representatives come down to watch him play against Pascoe Vale," Saladino said.
"Well, what a game he played that day. He scored a hat-trick and made it look easy."
While the performance caught the attention of scouts, Saladino said it was Leckie's mentality that separated him from his peers.
"He had the raw talent, the ability and strength to fend off defenders and go through them, but what made him stand out was his determination to carve his own path and have a professional career," he said.
"He always knew where he wanted to go. Despite that, he was quite a quiet character around the club, even among his teammates. He stayed humble."
Leckie's rise continued through Victorian football before earning his Socceroos debut in 2012 and embarking on a professional career that has taken him across Europe and Australia.
More than a decade later, he remains one of the country's most respected footballers and a key figure within the national team setup.
Having battled injuries in recent years, Leckie admitted he is grateful for another opportunity to represent Australia on football's biggest stage.
"I'm very fortunate to be here after the injuries that I've had," Leckie said.
"I'm lucky in a way to be back at this time and not be injured in this period and also that I've even been given the opportunity to be here."
"I've really put my head down in this camp and tried to work hard and do everything right to give myself a chance."
As Leckie prepares for a record-equalling fourth FIFA World Cup campaign, his success continues to inspire the next generation at Bulleen Lions.
Head of Football Karl Hodge said Leckie's journey remains a source of immense pride throughout the club.
"Seeing Matt represent Australia at the highest level is something our club is incredibly proud of," Hodge said.
"When our young players find out someone like Leckie started in their shoes, they feel a sense of pride that they played at the same club as him. It inspires young footballers to dream big and believe they can achieve the same through hard work and dedication."