AFC ASIAN CUP

Melbourne: In its first meeting held in host country Australia, the AFC Asian Cup Organising Committee met under the chairmanship of AFC Vice-President HRH Tengku Abdullah Ibni Sultan Ahmad Shah and reviewed the preparations for the AFC Asian Cup Australia 2015™ on Tuesday.

At the outset, AFC Acting President Zhang Jilong praised the progress made by the Australian Local Organising Committee (ALOC) in staging a successful competition.

“I would like to congratulate ALOC for their tremendous work so far in starting to prepare the venues for hosting the biggest football competition in Asia," said Jilong.“This is only the beginning and there is a lot that needs to be done in the run-up to the competition but I am confident that Australia will host the best ever competition,” he said.

HRH Tengku Abdullah said the committee members were happy with the development so far and looking forward to the preliminary draw and logo launch later today.“We have the first big event of this competition today and I am sure Australia’s rich tradition and hospitality will leave an impression on all the team representatives and the committee members alike,” he said.

“There would be obstacles along the way but I am sure that AFC and the ALOC will face them together and find solutions to make the event a success.”The committee later approved the AFC Asian Cup Australia 2015™ logo.The members were briefed that the selection of host cities and stadiums would be finalised by April 2013. They were also informed about inspections by AFC teams to finalise the Stadium Technical Annex.ALOC CEO Michael Brown presented Australia’s planning and preparedness to host the event in 2015 - www.asianfootball.com