Caltex Socceroos to take on Honduras in final round of qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup

Sydney, Australia
Wednesday 11 October 2017

The Caltex Socceroos will play Honduras in their final two qualification matches for the FIFA World Cup in Russia next year.

After last night’s victory over Syria, Australia’s opponent in the two-legged intercontinental play-off was decided in matches played today in Central and North America.

Football Federation Australia (FFA) awaits official confirmation of the fixture details from FIFA, however the matches will take place during the international window next month. The return leg will be played at Stadium Australia in Sydney. Ticketing details will be released in the coming days.

FFA Chief Executive David Gallop said he was expecting a big crowd in Sydney for the second leg of the must-win tie.

“The whole nation is going to be behind the team when they play in Honduras but our FIFA World Cup fate will be decided right here in Sydney. We have every confidence that Ange (Postecoglou) and the players can get the job done. It will be a massive night for football and the wonderful memories of the Uruguay game in 2005 will get the turnstiles spinning,” said Gallop.

Caltex Socceroos Head Coach Postecoglou said detailed preparations for the matches were already well advanced.

"I am aware of reports today suggesting that I will step down as Head Coach of the Socceroos next month. My sole focus is on preparing the team for our final two qualifying matches. I will not let anything compromise the team’s journey on getting to a fourth consecutive FIFA World Cup,” said Postecoglou.

Gallop said he had spoken to Postecoglou about the reports and agreed the focus should be on the November matches. 

“Beyond that, should we qualify, there is a period of some months until the World Cup and we agreed that we will need to lock in our set up as soon as possible to maximise our preparation time,” concluded Gallop.

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