25 Jan 2022
Sydney scores crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier
Sydney will host a must-win match between the Socceroos and Japan on Thursday 24 March, with qualification for the 2022 FIFA World Cup on the line for both nations.
The NSW Government, through its tourism and major events agency Destination NSW, has partnered with Football Australia to secure the vital match, with Australia currently sitting just behind Japan in their World Cup qualification group.
Minister for Tourism and Sport Stuart Ayres said Sydney had kicked another goal for international sport as the nation’s sporting events capital.
“Sydney and Stadium Australia have a proud history of providing a strong home ground advantage to lift our Socceroos to the FIFA World Cup,” Mr Ayres said.
“Sydney has led the return of international sport in Australia and this will be another opportunity to create an electric atmosphere across the city, showcasing Sydney as one of the best cities in the world to watch sporting events of the highest calibre.
“The NSW Government and Football Australia have worked closely on an impressive program of international football matches as we lead up to hosting the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, delivered through our 10 World Cups in 10 Years initiative.”
Football Australia Chief Executive Officer James Johnson said Football Australia was eager to lock the match in early to provide fans from around the country with the best possible opportunity to plan to be at the crucial qualifier.
“We have no doubt the entire nation will unite behind the Socceroos, so giving two months’ notice enhances the opportunity for fans to plan a pilgrimage to Stadium Australia in Sydney for what will be the most important Socceroos match played in Australia since Honduras in 2017,” Mr Johnson said.
“We recognise and thank the NSW Government for partnering with us on this showcase match which will attract significant visitation to the state and promote Sydney to a massive broadcast audience of millions of football fans in Australia and Japan, across Asia, and around the world.”
Tickets will go on sale to the General Public at 10am on 7 February via Ticketek.
MEDIA
Claudia Stevenson | 0499 574 053