- Published:
- Wednesday, 29 June 2016
Victoria will host the big-ticket blockbuster of Australia’s 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifier campaign when the Socceroos take on Japan at Etihad Stadium.
Premier Daniel Andrews today joined Acting Minister for Tourism and Major Events Philip Dalidakis and Football Federation Australia chief executive David Gallop to announce Victoria has fended off hot competition from other states to stage the biggest game on the road to Russia.
Australia and Japan are two of Asian football’s most fierce rivals. The pair met in the group stage of the 2006 FIFA World Cup, when Tim Cahill scored twice to secure a come-from-behind Socceroos victory that is forever etched in Australia’s sporting folklore.
The crucial contest at Etihad Stadium will coincide with the 54th Australia-Japan Joint Business Conference, secured for Melbourne by the Andrews Labor Government last year.
Japan is one of the largest international investors in Victoria, with more than 140 Japanese companies operating across the state.
Nobody does the world-class sporting events like Victoria. It’s why the top sporting codes turn to us to stage their biggest flagship events.
A full Etihad Stadium will give the Socceroos the boost they need to book a spot in the FIFA World Cup for a fourth-straight occasion.
Major events keep Victoria’s economy strong, attracting visitors from all over Australia and the world. The Labor Government has boosted Victoria’s major events war chest by $80 million, to position us perfectly to attract the events that create jobs and help businesses grow.
The Socceroos will take on Japan on October 11.
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“This is going to be an enormous contest that will play a big part in who makes it to Russia. It’s the biggest of the World Cup Qualifications – and it belongs in Victoria.”
“There’s nothing like a packed Etihad Stadium. Visitors from all over Australia and Japan will make this a great spectacle, providing valuable opportunities for our bars, hotels and nightspots.”
Quotes attributable to Acting Minister for Tourism and Major Events, Philip Dalidakis
“Our world-class events attract visitors from all over the world, and that’s a big boost to the local economy.”
“Australia and Japan always makes for a great match. These two teams have history. Who could forget the 2006 FIFA World Cup?”