Australia will host South Africa at ANZ Stadium on Monday 26 May 2014, while in the lead up to the match the Socceroos will be based on the Central Coast for a one week training camp at Bluetongue Stadium.

“I’m delighted to announce fans here in NSW and across Australia will get the final chance to wish the Socceroos farewell and good luck in Sydney when they take on South Africa ahead of their World Cup campaign,” Mr O’Farrell said.

“The Socceroos have done this nation and NSW proud by qualifying for their fourth World Cup last year in front of 82,000 ecstatic fans who filled ANZ Stadium in June.

“As Australia’s global tourism and events city, Sydney is a fitting destination to send off our national soccer team.

“This is another major events win for NSW and adds to the long list of events the NSW Government has secured for Western Sydney since coming to office. “

The NSW Government, through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW, has worked hard to ensure NSW has hosted the majority of the Socceroos matches, including the last vital qualifying match against Iraq and now the farewell friendly against South Africa.

Minister for Sport Gabrielle Upton said the Socceroos have had great success in NSW and it would be fantastic to be able to send them off on a winning note.

“What better way to send our boys off than to host a farewell match here in Sydney in front of passionate a home crowd,” Ms Upton said.

“I'm sure the feeling of support shown by our country will go a long way in helping them during their World Cup campaign in Brazil come June.

“I look forward to the excitement of seeing the Socceroos in their green and gold at ANZ Stadium one last time before they enter the world stage at the 2014 FIFA World Cup,” Ms Upton said.

Members of the Football Family will have an exclusive purchasing period from 9am Tuesday 4 March until11pm Thursday 6 March with the General Public on sale for the match from 9am Wednesday 12 March. For all ticketing details, please visit footballaustralia.com.au/tickets

Sydney and NSW has the nation’s best Major Sporting Events Calender which includes: The Opening Series of Major League Baseball in March, Italian Giants Juventus tour in August, the Bledisloe Cup for the next decade, international surfing, motor sports and the world class horseracing carnival – The Championships in NSW.

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