File photo of Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa
Doha: Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa (pictured) has congratulated Australia for becoming the record sixth AFC side to secure their place at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 after the Socceroos successfully navigated past Peru 5-4 on penalties as both sides played to a goalless draw after 120 minutes in a riveting FIFA World Cup Intercontinental Playoff on Monday.
Shaikh Salman said: “On behalf of the Asian football family, I would like to offer my heartfelt congratulations to Australia for qualifying to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
Turning his attention to the global showpiece, which runs from November 21, the AFC President added: “The AFC has reiterated that this is indeed Asia’s time and there is no better way to underline this celebration than with the qualification of a record six teams at the FIFA World Cup for the first time in our history.
“I wish all our qualified teams – host nation Qatar, the Islamic Republic of Iran, Japan, Korea Republic, Saudi Arabia along with Australia - the very best of success in their preparations to make Asia proud.
“And of course, our best wishes to Qatar’s Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, the Qatar Football Association, and the Qatari Authorities in staging the best-ever FIFA World Cup.”
