Socceroos confirm they’ll play Bangladesh qualifier
The Socceroos have confirmed they will travel to Bangladesh for next week’s World Cup qualifier in Dhaka despite the Australia cricket team cancelling its tour last month due to safety concerns.
Football Federation Australia (FFA) announced this morning the decision was reached in consultation with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the Bangladesh Government, Bangladesh Football Federation, FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).
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“Since Saturday, an FFA security delegation has been undertaking extensive meetings with DFAT, FIFA, AFC, the Bangladesh Government and Bangladesh security services in Dhaka to ascertain the security plans in place,” FFA chief executive David Gallop said in a statement.
These meetings have followed a month-long investigation into the security concerns around visiting Bangladesh and the FFA is satisfied with the plans that are now in place.
“Right from the outset our number one priority has been the safety of our staff and players,” Gallop said.
“Over the last month we have undertaken an extensive intelligence and risk management operation, driven by our world class security advisors and the relevant Government and security agencies, and we are happy with the plans put in place.”
The Socceroos will fly to Singapore on Saturday to prepare for Tuesday’s match before flying to Dhaka on Monday.