The AOC has congratulated the Socceroos and coach Graham Arnold after the team qualified for the FIFA World Cup with a dramatic 5-4 penalty shootout win over Peru this morning.
AOC President Ian Chesterman praised the team’s self-belief and poise to elevate Australia to the World Cup in November.
“It was an extraordinary match and an extraordinary victory. This is wonderful for Australian football and full credit to the players for their commitment and determination to achieve that result.
“I know first-hand through Graham Arnold’s handling of the Olyroos in Tokyo last year that he’s a coach whose pride in Australia and Australian football can yield amazing outcomes. Today was one of those.
“There were seven Tokyo Olyroos in this squad with three starting this morning. I am really pleased for that group.
“We congratulate Football Australia for its commitment to pursue the dream of getting Australia’s men’s team to a fifth successive World Cup and wish everyone success in that campaign,” he said.
Mr Chesterman said the victory will galvanise football fans during an exciting time for Australian sport.
“We now look forward to seeing the Socceroos take their place on the world stage in Qatar later this year and of course we will see the Matildas on show in a home World Cup next year – a shining milestone on the green and gold runway leading into the Brisbane 2032 Olympics.
“The Socceroo players can enjoy their victory this morning as they look to November. Again, well done to them all and my congratulations to Graham Arnold and the team behind the team,” Mr Chesterman concluded.
