Minister for Tourism and Major Events John Eren and Minister for Multicultural Affairs Robin Scott today officially welcomed the Greek national soccer team, in Melbourne for tomorrow’s international football friendly against the Socceroos.
It is a special type of homecoming for the Greek national team, with Melbourne home to the largest Greek speaking community outside of Greece, and more than 150,000 Melburnians identifying with Greek ancestry.
It is the second time the Greek team has taken on the Socceroos in Melbourne, with the two teams battling it out before heading to the 2006 World Cup. The Socceroos won that fixture 1-0 in front of a packed MCG.
The current Greek team boasts a formidable line-up including the likes of defensive rocks, Vasilis Torosidis from AS Roma and Sokratis Papastathopoulos from Borussia Dortmund, Benfica’s midfielder, Andreas Samaris and Fiorentina winger, Panagiotis Kone all supported by the exciting rising star and Racing Genk striker, Nikos Karelis.
Tomorrow’s match is the second fixture of the Dodoni Series and a crucial final preparation for both nations ahead of 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers commencing in September.
The double-header fixture also features Australia’s Matildas v New Zealand’s Football Ferns, which will be the Rio 2016 Olympic Games farewell match for both sides.
The Andrews Labor Government is proud to host an event that not only boasts such international importance, but also showcases football’s diversity, inclusiveness, and a spirit that is uniquely Melbourne.
Tickets for fans of all ages are available for this blockbuster double header via ticketmaster.com.au
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Tourism and Major Events John Eren
“There is no greater city in the world for these momentous games than right here in Melbourne, the recently named Ultimate Sports City of the Decade.”
“The importance of major sporting events as a significant economic driver and job generator for this state cannot be underestimated, which is why we are so excited for tomorrow’s matches.”
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Multicultural Affairs Robin Scott
“The Andrews Labor Government treasures our state’s strong relationship with Greece and the Hellenic diaspora.”
“Greece has a proud football history and with so many Victorians having a Greek heritage this promises to be a special match.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020