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Stage set for crucial Socceroos World Cup qualifier

Ange Postecoglou (AAP Image/Lukas Coch)
20th January, 2016
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The Socceroos will take on fellow Group B pace-setters Jordan in a World Cup Qualifier at Allianz Stadium in Sydney on March 29, a match that is looming as decisive in deciding which country will progress to the next stage of World Cup Qualifying as group winners.

The Socceroos currently lead Jordan by two points at the top of Group B with the clash in Sydney the final match of the first phase of qualifying.

“Obviously for us anytime we play at home is a special occasion but being in Sydney at Allianz Stadium gives us another great opportunity to create some more great memories,” said Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou.

“It’s a very important game. The one thing that struck us playing Jordan away was the atmosphere and the energy their crowd generated and we’re looking forward to hopefully giving them some of their own medicine when they come to Sydney.”

“It’s an opportunity for us to really finish this first phase strongly. We’re on top of the group and we want to stay there but more importantly our home performances have been really strong and we want to continue that and create an environment where teams really fear coming to Australia and playing us.”

“If we can be emphatic against Jordan, who are our closest opponent on the table, it will send a message to everyone.”

The match will hold special significance for Postecoglou, who will lead the Socceroos into battle at the same stadium where he first took charge of the national team, a 1-0 win over Costa Rica in November 2013.

“I’m not at the point where I’m reminiscing too much about my milestones as a Socceroos coach but I enjoy it when we play in Australia, I love playing in front of our home crowds,” said Postecoglou.

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“As the national team coach the away games are when it’s a struggle and at times when you come out battle scarred, but when you’re at home in front of your own supporters and everyone at the ground is singing the national anthem, it’s always a special occasion.”

The clash with Jordan at Allianz Stadium is the first time the Socceroos have played in Sydney during their 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, with their previous encounter in the harbour city having been the Final of the 2015 AFC Asian Cup.

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