Socceroos Call for Safe Play: Jordan Friendly in Jeopardy

The Socceroos are making a strong case to Football Australia, urging them to rethink the upcoming friendly match against Jordan in Amman due to heightened safety concerns. The players, through their union, have expressed reluctance to travel to an area marked by instability, especially considering the friendlies no longer serve as crucial preparation for the Asian Cup. Australia is set to face Qatar in Doha next Saturday AEDT, followed by the Jordan clash just four days later. However, recent events have raised alarms, particularly after the Asian Football Confederation postponed the Asian Cup, which was slated for January-February in Saudi Arabia, following an attack on Riyadh’s airport by Iran-backed Houthi rebels. The announcement of the Socceroos squad was initially expected on Friday but has been delayed, with speculation surrounding potential withdrawals from some players. Compounding these concerns, Indonesia’s football association recently scrapped a planned friendly against Jordan on November 13 due to escalating violence in the region. Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) has clearly indicated that the Australian players are hesitant to proceed with the match in Amman. PFA chief Beau Busch stated, "The PFA has worked with Football Australia over recent weeks regarding security issues and has consulted independent security experts. With full backing from the PFA, the players have overwhelmingly urged that the Jordan match be either rescheduled or moved. We are committed to finding a sensible solution with FA." In a positive note, winger Awer Mabil, 31, expressed his willingness to travel if selected. "I’m always happy to represent my country. It’s the highest honor for any player," Mabil said. "I trust that the FA will ensure our safety. If called up, I’m ready to go anywhere because you never know when the next opportunity to play for the national team will come." Mabil also took a moment to back coach Tony Popovic, whose future has become uncertain following the Asian Cup delay. Popovic had signed a short-term extension before the World Cup, set to expire early next year. The upcoming decisions will determine if he continues to lead Australia into the World Cup qualifying cycle and the rescheduled Asian Cup. "After this World Cup, you can see the positive impact he’s had on the national team," Mabil noted. "He’s laid some excellent foundations, and this Asian Cup would have been a significant moment for him. I believe Australia is lucky to have him, and whatever direction he chooses, success will follow."