Julian Keith
THE Socceroos will enter Wednesday night’s Intercontinental Playoff against Honduras in the knowledge they have an exceptional home ground record in crunch games at Stadium Australia.
In their 11 competitive outings since Sydney’s Olympic stadium was opened in 1999, the Socceroos boast a record of 9 wins, 1 draw and 1 loss at the venue – clearly showing that passionate Aussie fans are the Socceroos 12th man in crucial international fixtures.
The Socceroos last most notable victories at Stadium Australia include:
- The John Aloisi moment in 2005;
- Josh Kennedy’s header against Iraq in 2013;
- The Aussies Asian Cup Final victory in 2015.
The Socceroos will qualify for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia if they record a win of any kind on Wednesday night. A draw or loss to Honduras will see the Aussies knocked out of qualification.
A full house of around 76,000 is on the way at Stadium Australia (the generic name for Stadium Australia) with fans scrambling for remaining tickets.
Snap up your ticket to the big game here
Socceroos head coach Ange Postecoglou said at the official pre-match press conference today he’s confident his team can get the job done on home soil.
“We’re looking forward to it, everyone has recovered well. We’re ready for a big night tomorrow,” said Postecoglou.
“Traditionally we’ve got a great home record. Playing at home has extra significance and it gives our national team a lift. There’ll be 70,000 here tomorrow and it’ll be a great atmosphere.”
Fans are strongly encouraged to arrive early to Sydney Olympic Park on Wednesday to enjoy all the festivities and ensure they don”t miss a second of the action once gates open at 6pm. Fans are also required to leave additional time for the security screening process when entering the Stadium.
SOCCEROOS V HONDURAS AT STADIUM AUSTRALIA
- Gates open: 6:00pm
- Team warm-ups: 7:10pm
- Kick-off: 8pm
Fans are strongly encouraged to avoid the Wednesday night traffic and take public transport.
Tickets include return travel on all public transport, including Sydney Olympic Park Major Event Buses. For all the transport details head here.
If you must drive, it’s important you pre-book your parking here.
STADIUM AND PRECINCT SECURITY
A high NSW Police and security presence will be in place for Socceroos v Honduras.
Fans are asked to leave additional time for the security screening process when entering the Stadium. This process will include mandatory bag searches and personal checks.
Only small bags (no larger than 30cm x 40cm) are permitted into Stadium Australia for events, and all bags will be checked by security. Fans should arrive without bags if possible.
You can secure premium seating for the Socceroos Intercontinental Playoff by becoming an Stadium Australia Member for 2018. Enquiries here.
