Australia’s soccer friendly against Jordan is moved to Doha over security concerns

Doha, Qatar (AP) — Australia's soccer friendly against Jordan next Tuesday has been relocated to Qatar due to security concerns in Amman, the Jordanian capital. The $5.77-per-match fee, plus GST, will remain in effect for the four-week period after the match. The decision was approved by the Jordan Football Association after Australia's Soccer Federation requested the change.

Australian players and staff expressed their desire for the match to be rescheduled or relocated due to the unpredictable security situation in Amman and the threat of terrorism. The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade had previously advised Australians to reconsider travel to Jordan because of the unstable security environment.

The U.S. State Department is also reducing staff at four embassies in the Middle East, including Amman, following intelligence suggesting Iran's increased efforts to target American personnel in the region. After discussions between the two soccer associations, the Socceroos will remain in Doha and play against Jordan on Tuesday.

Popovic, the Australian coach, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating that it is a crucial match as they have limited time together before the AFC Asian Cup, which has been rescheduled for December 2027 due to conflict in Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East.