The Socceroos are set to add another chapter to one of Australia’s biggest sporting rivalries when they face England in an International friendly on the 27th of May.
Officially announced by the FFA earlier tonight, the match will take place at the Stadium of Light, the home of Premier League side Sunderland.
The Three Lions, who will be in the final preparations before Euro 2016, boast star names such as Wayne Rooney, Harry Kane, Raheem Sterling and 2015-16 showstopper Jamie Vardy.
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Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou is already looking forward to facing some of the world’s best at such a crucial juncture.
“We are excited to have secured this friendly against England as they are preparing for the 2016 European Championships,” said Postecoglou.
“We have stated that we want to continue progressing as a football nation so we can challenge the best teams in the world and England was strong in qualifying for the Euros.
“This is another opportunity for the players to step up against a big football nation and show that our journey to make an impact on world football is heading in the right direction. We will face England in their backyard and we will take the game to them so we have a guide as to how we are progressing.
“Australia against England is a massive part of the Australian sporting culture and it will be a fantastic opportunity for our players to experience that rivalry. It will be a special occasion.
Few Australian football fans could forget the last meeting against England back in 2003, ending in a 3-1 for the Socceroos after goals from Tony Popovic, Bret Emerton and Harry Kewell.
It adds to a growing list of fixtures for Postecoglou’s men over the coming months, with games against Tajikistan and Jordan closing out March and meetings with Greece in June.
“The clash with England, along with the two Greece games in Australia, gives us some great matches as we look ahead to the next round of World Cup Qualifying,” said the Socceroos coach.
MATCH DETAILS:
England v Australia
Friday 27 May 2016
Stadium of Light, Sunderland
8pm Kick off (5am AEST Saturday 28 May)
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