Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Sydney: AFC President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa met FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter upon his arrival in Sydney ahead of the AFC Asian Cup 2015 final on Saturday between host nation Australia and Korea Republic.
During the meeting, both parties discussed means of cooperation between FIFA and the AFC, in addition to reviewing issues related to the present edition of the AFC Asian Cup and other subjects of mutual interest.
Shaikh Salman stressed the importance of having a strong tie between both organisations and building on it to further boost relationship in all fields in order to fulfil the aspirations of Asian football.
On his part, the FIFA President extended his appreciation and gratitude to the AFC President for inviting him to attend the concluding matches of Asia’s flagship football competition, which he described as a success in terms of its organisation and general reception.
According to the FIFA President: “The AFC Asian Cup 2015 has been hugely successful with entertaining football, extensive media coverage, impressive attendances and record levels of television viewership. In particular it has been great to see the way the Australian public has got behind this tournament and supported all of the teams”
Blatter also lauded the efforts of the AFC and organising committee in ensuring that the championship is a resounding success.
“I congratulate the AFC, the Local Organising Committee and Football Federation Australia for all their efforts and we also must acknowledge the many volunteers who make such events possible. I look forward to attending the last two matches and soaking up the unique atmosphere of this special competition,” he said.