The Socceroos and South Korea will square off in a dream Asian Cup decider after both sides claimed comfortable 2-0 victories in their respective semi-finals.
South Korea advanced after accounting for Iraq in Sydney on Australia Day, while the Aussies scored two early goals to close out victory against the United Arab Emirates.
The pair will play in front of over 80,000 fans for the chance to be crowned champions of Asia, with Saturday night’s clash at Stadium Australia officially a sell-out.
As anticipation builds ahead of the tournament’s 16th final there’s no doubt we’ll also have a capacity crowd at Strathfield Sports Club for what promises to be a truly memorable night.
The Socceroos will be aiming to lift their maiden Asian Cup title following their transition to Asia’s federation from Oceania back in 2006.
A rejuvenated Australian squad have now qualified for back-to-back finals, having been runners-up in Qatar four years ago.
For South Korea the clash represents their first chance to lift the trophy in nearly 50 years, after they claimed the first two editions of the Cup, the last coming as hosts back in 1960.
The Taeguk Warriors had to settle for third place in 2011 having been knocked out by eventual champions, Japan, in the last four.
It’s not the first time Australia and South Korea have met at the tournament with the pair earlier battling it out in Brisbane for the right to top Group A.
Uli Stielike’s side were the victors on that occasion with a solitary first-half goal enough to claim the three points, as the Socceroos were unable to find an equaliser despite creating several chances.
The South Koreans are actually yet to concede a goal at the tournament, while Ange Postecoglou’s side have the best attacking record. Remarkably Australia’s 12 goals have come from ten different scorers.
It all points to a truly momentous occasion when the two sides kick-off in Homebush at 8pm on Saturday night.
If you were not fortunate enough to secure tickets to the match we’ll of course be screening all the action live on our big screen.
There’s no doubt allegiances will be split when play gets under way, which will ensure an electric atmosphere in the clubhouse for the occasion.
Members, guests and football fans are invited to wear their county’s colours to get into the spirit of the contest and to arrive early to avoid missing out on a place.
On behalf of the club we thank everyone that has supported the Asian Cup throughout January with their attendance.
We look forward to bringing you the finale on what promises to be an unforgeable night in Australia’s football history.