Socceroos in Asian group of death
Australia’s introduction into Asia continues to be less than welcome, with the Socceroos facing a tough assignment just to make the next stage of qualifying for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Coachless and coming off a disastrous Asian Cup, the Socceroos have been grouped with Qatar, China and Cup champions Iraq in their first stage. The top two teams in each group move through to the next stage.
The Socceroos have bad memories of the Iraqis, having received a 3-1 Asian Cup hiding in July.
As was the case in that tournament, climate will be an issue for Australia, with the away matches against Qatar and Iraq set to be played in the middle eastern city of Doha.
It is expected Australia’s opening match will be at home against Qatar on February 6. Each nation will play six matches in the home and away format. The stage ends in September.
Asia – Winners and Runners-up qualify
Group 1: Australia, Qatar, Iraq, China.
Group 2: Japan, Thailand, Oman, Bahrain.
Group 3: Korea Republic, Turkmenistan, Jordan, North Korea.
Group 4: Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Lebanon, Uzbekistan.
Group 5: Iran, Syria, UAE, Kuwait.
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