The Caltex Socceroos crucial FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifier against Thailand tonight in Melbourne has sold out.
Explainer: Caltex Socceroos' task against Thailand
A parochial capacity crowd at the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium will be hoping to see the Caltex Socceroos score a convincing victory over the Thais with whom they unexpectedly drew late last year.
If the Caltex Socceroos do win, the team will qualify directly for the FIFA World Cup in Russia next year, should Japan defeat or draw with Saudi Arabia in the early hours of Wednesday (Australian time).
“It is fantastic to see Caltex Socceroos supporters getting behind the team for this match,” said Football Federation Australia chief executive David Gallop.
“Together we’ll make sure that Ange and the players have a great atmosphere in which to take on Thailand.
"We like playing at this venue, it’s usually a great surface to play on and with the fans so close to the action it will be like having a 12th player out there.
Mr Gallop thanked the Victorian Government for partnering with FFA to promote the match in Melbourne.
For fans who have missed out on tickets, it will be shown live on FOX SPORTS and the Nine Network.
“We’re expecting a big television audience around Australia,” Mr Gallop said.
“As we have seen in other World Cup qualifying campaigns, these moments unite our country around our team.”
In addition the Caltex Socceroos will be wearing white socks in memory of the well-respected journalist and FFA Hall of Fame member Mike Cockerill.
There will also be a moment of silence before the match to remember Mike Cockerill, Les Murray and three members of the Thailand Team delegation who passed away last month.