Asian Cup 2015: FFA want to host Palestine in first ever game between the two nations
FOOTBALL Federation Australia is open to the prospect of the Socceroos facing Palestine, though the landmark game would have to take place Down Under.
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THE Socceroos facing Palestine is a very real prospect.
After Palestine coach Ahmad Al Hassan issued Australia an invitation to play a match on their turf on Monday night, Football Federation Australia officials were keen to pursue the ground breaking opportunity by hosting Palestine in Australia.
Palestine has never faced the Socceroos in an international and hasn’t played a fixture in Palestine since 2012 due to international sanctions.
A spokesperson from FFA said Australia would extend its hand in strengthening football ties with Palestine which is making its first appearance at the Asian Cup.
“FFA has noted the comments of Ahmad Al Hassan and thanks him for his kind words about the organisation of the AFC Asian Cup Australia 2015 and the hospitality shown by Australians to the Palestine team,” said an FFA spokesman.
“Friendship through football is one of the main legacy benefits of the tournament.
“FFA would be delighted to assist the development of Palestine’s football in any meaningful way we can, including future visits to our shores.”
Al Hassan on Monday was full of praise claiming Australia is a brilliant host nation for the Asian Cup.
“My message as a team from a country that is under occupation is that this is an invitation to the Australian team,’’ Al Hassan said.
“To come to Palestine and to play with us in Palestine, hopefully one day we will we able be without the occupation and we would like to return the hospitality.”
Palestine faces Iraq at Canberra Stadium on Tuesday night with the side a slim chance of qualifying for the Asian Cup quarterfinal.
Palestine needs to beat Iraq handsomely and rely on Japan to beat Jordan by a big margin in Melbourne to cruise to the knockout stage.
The second-placed Group D side will remain in Canberra to face Iran in the quarterfinal on Friday.
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