Football Australia CEO James Johnson reacted to the Subway Socceroos' exit from the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ after a 2-1 extra-time defeat against Korea Republic at Al Janoub Stadium on Saturday morning (AEDT).
"As the AFC Asian Cup 2023 journey concludes for the Subway Socceroos, I am filled with an immense sense of pride for what Arnie (Graham Arnold) and our team has accomplished. Despite tonight's result, the spirit, resilience, and dedication displayed by our players throughout the tournament has been inspiring. Congratulations to South Korea on their victory and best wishes for their journey ahead in the semifinals.
"The Subway Socceroos have showcased the true essence of Australian football - courage, determination, and a relentless drive to succeed. While we may not have reached the final, our journey was marked by moments of brilliance and unwavering team spirit. This team, this great group of players, has every reason to hold their heads high, and I have no doubt they will return stronger, ready to face the challenges ahead.
"I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to every Australian who has rallied behind the Subway Socceroos. Your passionate support and encouraging messages have been a tremendous source of motivation for the team. The unity and loyalty of our fans are what make football such a powerful and beloved sport in Australia. Your continued support is invaluable as we look ahead to future challenges.
"As we turn our focus to the upcoming Olympic Qualifiers and FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the lessons learned and the experiences gained from this tournament will undoubtedly fuel our ambition and preparation. The path ahead is filled with opportunities, and we are poised to embrace these challenges with determination and optimism."
