Sydney FC will host an AFC Champions League clash at the newly rebuilt Sydney Football Stadium for the very first time next month.
The Sky Blues highly anticipated round of 16 match with Bangkok United will take place on Wednesday, 12th February at 7pm.
The knockout stage marks a huge moment in the club’s season and is also a pivotal event for Australian football.
Australia’s AFC club ranking, which is based on previous performances by A-League clubs in AFC competition, is on the cusp of being overtaken by Malaysia and Vietnam.
This would reduce the A-League’s Asian slot allocation to just two AFC Champions League 2 spots by 2026, and that would mean Australian clubs losing the AFC Champions League Elite place and it’s $AU18 million prize.
Sydney FC’s Chief Executive Officer Mark Aubrey emphasized the significance of the match for the whole A-League.
“This game isn’t just about Sydney FC; it’s about the future of Australian football,” Aubrey said.
“The AFC Champions League competition gives us the chance solidify Australia’s elite reputation in Asia and we need to perform and progress as far as possible to safeguard Australia’s critical AFC coefficient.
“If we don’t perform, Australia risks losing its ACL Elite spot to countries like Malaysia and Vietnam, and the ripple effects would be felt by every A-League club.
“It’s why we need a huge support, not just from Sydney FC fans but from all football supporters who have the best interests of Australian football at heart.
“I’d urge as many fans of football as possible to attend.”
The club is offering an array of incentives for the fixture.
All Sydney FC Members and Sydney Derby ticket holders can purchase general admission and Cove tickets for just $10, with 30% off other ticket categories.
The match is only the second time Sydney FC has reached an AFC Champions League knockout stage, and the club also are keen to showcase their world-class home stadium to the Asian Football Confederation for the very first time.
“We’re proud to host this crucial game at the Sydney Football Stadium, a venue that reflects the ambition and quality of our club,” continued Aubrey.
“This is a chance to demonstrate to the rest of Asia that Australian football can compete at the highest level, both on and off the pitch.”
Having played group stage matches at Jubilee Stadium, Sydney FC’s qualification to the knockout rounds has prompted the move to the larger Sydney Football Stadium.
“We’re looking forward to seeing the entire football community come together for this high-stakes game and I’m sure with that support and the magnificent backing of our own fans we can do what is best for Australian football,” Aubrey added.
Tickets are on sale now from Ticketek for Sydney FC Members’ to purchase their same seat, and the Sky Blues Members’ pre-sale for other categories (Cove / GA) is on Monday 20th January.
Tickets go on sale to the general public on Wednesday 22nd January.
