Iran choose Sydney as AFC Asian Cup base

Iran will arrive in Sydney on December 30 and train at Cromer Park until January 7, when they head to Melbourne for their opening match against Bahrain on January 11.

Despite being drawn in a group which also includes the United Arab Emirates, newly crowned Gulf Cup champions Qatar and Bahrain, Iran remain one of the tournament favourites and will head to the Asian Cup as Asia's top ranked team ahead of Japan.

Iran are the latest team to confirm its pre-competition arrangements, joining China, who will set up at Campbelltown, Japan (Cessnock), Bahrain (Ballarat), Jordan (Mulgrave in Melbourne's east), United Arab Emirates (Gold Coast), Oman and Qatar (both Canberra), Saudi Arabia (Torquay), Uzbekistan (Rockdale) and Korea Republic (Ryde in Sydney).

"The Iranians have chosen one of the most beautiful areas of Sydney, and indeed Australia, to complete their preparations, and I am sure the local community will give them a big Aussie welcome," said Michael Brown, CEO of the Asian Cup Local Organising Committee.

"They are proving one of the biggest box office drawcards of the tournament, which is a good indication that they will enjoy plenty of support in the grandstands. With just over a month to go until kick-off, this announcement takes the excitement and anticipation up another notch.”

Mayor of Warringah, Michael Regan said: “I’m immensely proud to be hosting one of the world’s best football teams at our own Cromer Park on Sydney’s beautiful northern beaches.

“This will not just be a boost for the sport, but also for the local economy. I have no doubt that the friendly northern beaches community will welcome Iran with open arms and make their stay enjoyable and memorable.

“I’d like to thank the Iran Football Federation, the AFC Asian Cup Local Organising Committee and everyone in Warringah and Warringah Council who worked so hard to bring Iran to Cromer Park.”

Photo: AFP