Sydney (AFP) – Football Federation Australia was Saturday seeking clarity on whether its Asian World Cup qualifier against Thailand in Bangkok next month will still go ahead following the death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
The FFA said it was chasing official notification from governing football bodies whether the match scheduled for the Rajamangala Stadium in the Thai capital could still be played on November 15.
Bhumibol, the world’s longest-reigning monarch, died at 88 on Thursday after years of ill health, ending seven decades as a stabilising figure, with the country beginning a period of mourning.
Thailand’s government has asked for a one-month suspension of entertainment and sporting activities.
In a statement, the FFA said it was “awaiting official notification from FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation on the status of the Australia v Thailand 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier due to be played in Bangkok”.
Australia are currently second in Group B of final Asian qualifying for a place at Russia 2018, while Thailand have yet to earn a point after four games.
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