Football fever has taken over the Gold Coast, with the Socceroos preparing to play on the glitter strip for the first time ever tonight.
Australia is taking on Bahrain in the first of their Third Round Asian Qualifiers at Robina Stadium, with a near sell-out crowd expected.
The Aussies have been placed in Group C alongside Japan, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, China PR, and Indonesia, with the top two teams to earn direct qualification into the 2026 World Cup.
Tonight’s Gold Coast battle will be the second clash between Australia and Bahrain this year, with the Socceroos hoping to repeat their last performance against the Persian Gulf nation.
Graham Arnold’s side previously faced the Pearl Divers during their Asian Cup preparations when the Green and Gold claimed a 2-0 victory in the friendly.
Defender Kye Rowes will start for Australia, with the 26-year-old local admitting it feels a little surreal to be playing at home on the Gold Coast.
“I love it here… It’s my home town so I am trying to soak it all in, see family and friends and enjoy the good weather,” Rowles said.
“It is pretty amazing to be where I am today. I am honoured and humbled. It is a massive privilege to play for your country and to do it on the Gold Coast – I am speechless.”
Arnold said the whole squad is looking forward to running out on a stadium they’ve never played at before.
“Rectangle stadium, fantastic and a full house is even better 12th man for us. I know the boys are excited to get on the pitch and play, and I’m excited to see them get on the pitch and play,” he said.
“The energy the boys come into camp with is so far, it’s been fantastic. It’s just like a family that catches up together and they all get on so well and that’s very important.
“We’ve got, what I believe, some real good attacking quality. That’s why I went with extra wingers this camp. I think that that’ll be crucial the wingers and the one v one actions, and go for it. It’s what it’s all about.”
Kick-off is at 8pm, with gates set to open at 6.30pm.
Those who missed out on tickets can still watch the game live on 10, 10 Play and Paramount+.
