Former Socceroos coach Guus Hiddink and current national boss Graham Arnold to lead in charity game

A pair of figureheads who led the Socceroos through their golden era are set to coach some of the biggest names in world football in the hotly anticipated Football for Fires charity match.

The pair were master and apprentice in the Socceroos’ golden era. Picture: ANP

It’s a flashback to Australia’s golden generation, with the master taking on the apprentice.

Former Socceroos coach Guus Hiddink will reunite on the touchline with his old assistant, and current national team boss Graham Arnold as they go head-to-head as coaches of the Firefighters All Stars v SES All Stars at the #FootballForFires bushfire relief match at ANZ Stadium on 23 May.

Arnold was Hiddink’s assistant in Australia’s 2006 World Cup campaign and will join each other on the sideline for the first time since the fabled tournament.

Graham Arnold and Guus Hiddink will coach against each other.

Some of world football’s greatest will converge on ANZ Stadium in May with Didier Drogba, David Trezeguet and former Manchester United and Sydney FC forward Dwight Yorke set to play.

Former Socceroos legends Mark Bosnich and John Aloisi headline a crop of Aussie talent set to dust the boots off.

“The fires that have impacted so many Australians have been devastating, so I am pleased I will be able to be part of this match which will raise much-needed funds for affected communities,” said Arnold.

“Having a true legend of world football, and one of my mentors, in Guus Hiddink in the other technical area will be fantastic. I spoke to Guus last night and he was equally honoured to have been invited to Australia for the match and to play a role in Australia’s recovery efforts.”

Known affectionately by fans as “Aussie Guus”, Hiddink oversaw the Socceroos’ first ever FIFA World Cup win at that tournament, and will relish the opportunity to be involved in Australian football once again.

“I have very fond memories of my time in and with Australia, and when I received a call to play a role in this benefit match it was something I really wanted to do.

The match will raise funds for the restoration and improvement of local football clubs and facilities in fire-affected areas, support the recovery process in devastated communities and honour thousands of volunteer firefighters and State Emergency Service personnel.

Originally published as Former Socceroos coach Guus Hiddink and current national boss Graham Arnold to lead in charity game