Acting Premier Peter Ryan today joined Federal Minister for Sports Peter Dutton, Socceroos Coach Ange Postecoglou, the AFC Asian Cup Local Organising Committee CEO Michael Brown, Socceroos captain Lucas Neill to announce the countdown to the Asian Cup 2015.
“This time next year, 32 matches featuring 16 teams from the Asian region, including the Socceroos, will be hosted across five cities Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra and Newcastle.” Mr Ryan commented.
“We want to give the warmest of welcomes to all of Asia’s top teams, and deliver a tournament that celebrates Asia’s rich football culture.” Mr Brown Commented.
“The tournament kicks off in Melbourne with the opening match featuring the Socceroos on 9 January at AAMI Park, followed by other group matches at the purpose built stadium on 11, 14, 16, 18, and 20 January, and a quarter final on 22 January 2015.” Mr Ryan commented
Socceroos captain Lucas Neill explained that the Socceroos bowed out at the quarter-final stage of the Asian Cup in 2007, and were defeated by an extra time goal in the 2011 final, losing out both times to Japan.
“The prospect of playing in such a massive tournament, in our own backyard, in front of our families and friends, is a tremendous driving force,” Neill said.