FFA has confirmed that the Socceroos will return to ANZ Stadium for the first time since their Asian Cup triumph, with a friendly against Greece announced for Saturday 4 June.
This is the second time Australia will host Greece after the 2004 Euro champions played against the Socceroos at the MCG in 2006, with a sell-out crowd in attendance.
Coach Ange Postecoglou, of Greek heritage, predicted a “special atmosphere” at Homebush. A considerable population with Greek blood call Australia home.
“We’re excited to lock in the match against Greece on home soil,” Postecoglou said.
“There’s no doubt the Greek match will be a hit with the Socceroos and Greek fans and we can look forward to a special atmosphere at ANZ Stadium.
“Playing Greece will be a good match up for us as we look to play as many teams as possible from outside our region when we have breaks from our World Cup Qualifiers against Asian opposition.
“We have two very important World Cup Qualifiers coming up in Adelaide and Sydney in March, which are our first focus but it is good to have this match locked in as we continue to build throughout the current World Cup cycle.”
NSW Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events and Minister for Sport Stuart Ayres echoed Postecoglou’s sentiments, saying he expects plenty of visitors to flock to Sydney for the match.
“I’m delighted the NSW Government has secured this fantastic sporting event for Sydney, 10 years since Greece last visited our shores,” Mr Ayres said.
“Greece has an enormous following right around the world, and it will be great to welcome these passionate fans to Sydney.”
A second friendly against the Greeks is likely to be announced shortly, with Melbourne’s Etihad Stadium in doubt as a venue due to the AFL.
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