Andy Milne, a beloved fan known for his resemblance to former English football player Steve McClaren, has made his way to Australia to cheer on the Lionesses ahead of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup opening matches.
Milne gained viral fame during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar due to his infectious enthusiasm and striking resemblance to McClaren. He was recently spotted near Sydney’s iconic Harbour Bridge, mingling with England supporters, posing for selfies, and even carrying a replica trophy.
Renowned as “that World Cup guy,” Milne has been a loyal supporter of the England men’s team, attending every Men’s World Cup since he was 19. However, this marks his first time attending a Women’s World Cup.
Upon learning of his dedication, Tourism Australia extended a warm welcome to Milne and his daughter Laila, who is currently residing in Sydney on a working holiday.
Hailing from Northwich, Cheshire, Milne has been a strong advocate for women’s sports. He played a pivotal role in establishing the girls’ football team at The Grange School in Cheshire, ensuring his daughter Laila had the opportunity to participate.
Expressing his excitement about the trip, Milne shared, “My favourite thing about the World Cup is meeting new people in new places, and there’s no place more welcoming than Australia. Since the moment I landed, everyone I’ve met has been so wonderful, and I can’t wait to meet more locals, more fans, and soak up the positive, inviting atmosphere. This is my first Women’s World Cup, and I’m absolutely buzzing to be Down Under for it. It’s going to be incredible to watch England take on Haiti this weekend, and hopefully, football is coming home.”
As the current European Champions, England will face Haiti in their opening game on Saturday, 20 July, at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, Queensland.
Sally Cope, Tourism Australia’s Regional General Manager for the UK & Northern Europe, remarked, “Sport is a big part of Aussie culture, and we love how it brings people together. When we heard about Andy, someone who has been a passionate supporter of football for decades and gets so much enjoyment out of meeting new people while he cheers on his home country, we knew we had to invite him to come and say g’day and be part of the Women’s World Cup.”
Milne will spend a week in Australia, supporting Sarina Wiegman’s Lionesses in their opening match and also watching the Matildas face Ireland’s Girls in Green on Thursday, 20 July. He also had the opportunity to meet up with football enthusiast TikToker @samanthajademiller in Sydney.
