SYDNEY / PR: Organisers of next year’s Asian Cup in Australia have called on all the region’s fans to make the trip Down Under for January’s continental championship, saying a combination of great matches, great weather and attractive ticket prices will make it an unforgettable experience.

“I can assure everyone a warm Aussie welcome awaits them,” said Local Organising Committee ceo Michael Brown as organisers prepared to release the first venue packs for public sale.

“We want fans to come to Australia from all around Asia, and the rest of the world, to experience a true festival of football and take home memories that will last a lifetime.

“Fans coming to Australia will see the best Asia has to offer, and they will see it at prices that are very affordable and family-friendly. Asian Cup venue packs go on sale to the general public at noon on Monday May 19.

“They are the ultimate tickets for passionate fans wanting the best seats in the house for every match in one city, with a hefty saving of up to 20pc.”

Highlights for fans buying venue packs in each of the five host cities include:

Sydney: Seven matches, including the final itself on January 31, one semi-final and one quarter- final.

The semi and the final could involve the Socceroos. Sydney also hosts Australia’s second group match against Oman and fellow World Cup finalist Iran’s match against Qatar.

All seven matches from $229.

Melbourne: One quarter-final plus six star-studded group matches, five of them involving past Asian Cup champions. Melbourne will not only host the opening ceremony, which precedes Australia’s first match against Kuwait, but will provide the stage for Iran, Japan, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, who between them have won 11 of the 15 Asian Cups decided so far.

All seven matches from $159.

Brisbane: One quarter-final and six group matches, including the much anticipated showdown between World Cup finalists Australia and South Korea. Brisbane will also host another World Cup finalist in Iran, and a standout match between the past two Asian Cup champions, Japan and Iraq.

“That’s a world class game,” says Paul Okon. “If you love football, who wouldn’t want to go and watch such an event?”

Brisbane also presents two matches involving China, sure to be followed by a large and colourful contingent from the local Chinese community.

All seven matches from $139.

Canberra: One quarter-final and six group matches, including two featuring the mighty Korean Republic, World Cup finalists and twice former Asian Cup champions. Canberra will also host China’s match against dark horse North Korea, and matches featuring past champions Iraq and Kuwait.

All seven matches from $109.

Newcastle: Four matches, including two at the pointy end of the tournament, a semi-final and the play-off for third place, either of which could involve the Socceroos . Newcastle will also set the stage for the first appearance of the mighty Japanese, reigning Asian Cup champions, and former winner Kuwait’s tough match against Oman.

All four matches from $99.

Register at afcasiancup.com for priority access to tickets.

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