AUCKLAND – O-League clubs Auckland City FC and Waitakere United are relishing the opportunity to face international competition this week in the form of Kuwait’s national football team.
Kuwait arrived in New Zealand last week and will play both Auckland-based teams as part of their preparations for the 2011 Asian Cup qualifier against Australia on March 5 in Canberra.
Their first friendly against Auckland City is scheduled for 5:45pm tonight at Kiwitea St while the Waitakere clash kicks off at the same time on Friday night at Allen Hill Stadium in Devonport, Auckland.
It has been almost 28 years since Kuwait played on New Zealand soil. Their last visit in 1981 included a controversial second-round World Cup qualifier against the All Whites that ended 2-1 to Kuwait after they were awarded two penalties. The game proved to be the only loss for the All Whites in a 15-match qualifying series that earned them a place at the 1982 FIFA World Cup in Spain.
Waitakere United Chairman Rex Dawkins believes the history adds a level of intrigue to this week’s matches.
“With Kuwait of course people are referring back to ‘82 and the incredible games played in qualifying the year before,” Dawkins said. “The controversy, goals and late drama in those matches are folklore in New Zealand.”
Both Waitakere United and Auckland City view the games as valuable opportunities to gain experience against international competition.
Photo courtesy NZF Media
Match details:
Auckland City FC vs. Kuwait
Kiwitea St, Sandringham
Tuesday 24 February, 5.45pm kickoff
Waitakere Utd v Kuwait
Allen Hill Stadium, Devonport
Friday 27 February, 5.45pm kickoff
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Priscilla Duncan
Oceania Football Confederation
Media and Communications
T: +649-526-5651
F: +649-525-8164
M: +64 (0)21 884 018
Gordon Glen Watson
Oceania Football Confederation
Media and Communications
T: +649-526-5654
F: +649-525-8164
M: +64 (0)21 994 520