Australian football team needed a win versus the No. 10 ranked Denmark to progress ahead into the Round of 16 in the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Prior to the game, Australia were at the second spot in their group and had fate in their own hands knowing that a win will be enough for them to progress ahead in the mega event. A defeat would've ended their run and a draw would've put them in a difficult spot and pushed to a likely early exit.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, the Aussies rode on&nbsp;Mathew Leckie as he scored the only goal of the match to help his side to a 1-0 win over Denmark and take them into the Round of 16 in a World Cup for only the second time. In 2006 edition, Australia had reached the last 16 for the first time. After the game got over, Aussie fans went berserk and celebrated wildly. The game ended at 4 am local time in Australia, however, the fans gathered in huge numbers and celebrated the side's victory in the streets in Melbourne. Here's a viral video of Aussie fans' celebrations after Australia made it to the last 16:

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Melbourne, at 3am 🇦🇺 time. A big moment for football in the country. <a href="https://t.co/v6tO14iUch">pic.twitter.com/v6tO14iUch</a>
— Adam Millington (@AdamGMillington) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamGMillington/status/1597994348322254856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-messi-fails-to-score-from-penalty-kick-due-to-szczesnys-splendid-save-in-argentina-portugal-tie-538965">WATCH: Messi fails to score from penalty kick due to Szczesny's splendid save in Argentina-Portugal tie</a>

Australia now have a stern test ahead. They will face Lionel Messi-starrer Argentina in the Round of 16 clash on December 04. With the group stages done and dusted for the men from Down Under, they will know they have to be at their very best to go all the distance in the showpiece event in Qatar.

Australian football team needed a win versus the No. 10 ranked Denmark to progress ahead into the Round of 16 in the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Prior to the game, Australia were at the second spot in their group and had fate in their own hands knowing that a win will be enough for them to progress ahead in the mega event.

Australian football team needed a win versus the No. 10 ranked Denmark to progress ahead into the Round of 16 in the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Prior to the game, Australia were at the second spot in their group and had fate in their own hands knowing that a win will be enough for them to progress ahead in the mega event. A defeat would've ended their run and a draw would've put them in a difficult spot and pushed to a likely early exit. Nonetheless, the Aussies rode on Mathew Leckie as he scored the only goal of the match to help his side to a 1-0 win over Denmark and take them into the Round of 16 in a World Cup for only the second time. In 2006 edition, Australia had reached the last 16 for the first time. After the game got over, Aussie fans went berserk and celebrated wildly. The game ended at 4 am local time in Australia, however, the fans gathered in huge numbers and celebrated the side's victory in the streets in Melbourne. Here's a viral video of Aussie fans' celebrations after Australia made it to the last 16: Melbourne, at 3am 🇦🇺 time. A big moment for football in the country. pic.twitter.com/v6tO14iUch — Adam Millington (@AdamGMillington) November 30, 2022 × Also read: WATCH: Messi fails to score from penalty kick due to Szczesny's splendid save in Argentina-Portugal tie Australia now have a stern test ahead. They will face Lionel Messi-starrer Argentina in the Round of 16 clash on December 04. With the group stages done and dusted for the men from Down Under, they will know they have to be at their very best to go all the distance in the showpiece event in Qatar.

FIFA WC: Australian fans go berserk as Socceroos seal a spot in Round of 16 with Denmark win - Watch

Olivier Giroud became France's joint all-time top scorer when his double helped the holders start the defence of their World Cup title in style with a 4-1 comeback Group D win against Australia on Tuesday.

Giroud found the net before and after the break to take his tally to 51 goals, matching Thierry Henry's mark, either side of a Kylian Mbappe goal after Adrien Rabiot had levelled following Craig Goodwin's shock early opener.

Les Bleus are the first defending champions to win their opening match since Brazil in 2006, which has already put them in good position to advance from the group phase, something Italy in 2010, Spain in 2014 and Germany in 2018 failed to do.

France, who lost defender Lucas Hernandez to a knee injury, have three points and lead Tunisia and Denmark by two after they played out a 0-0 draw on Tuesday.

Didier Deschamps's France side, who started the tournament on the back of the disappointment of striker Karim Benzema being ruled out injured last Saturday, next face Denmark on Saturday.

It was not quite the start France were expecting at the Al Janoub stadium.

Goodwin smacked the ball into the roof of the net from Mathew Leckie's cross from the right, leaving Lucas Hernandez holding his right knee after being beaten to the ball after nine minutes.

Hernandez's brother Theo came on as a substitute and France continued to struggle to create space, with only Mbappe threatening on his left flank.

Exhilarating Feel

Australia were much more direct, making the most of Les Bleus's non-existent midfield.

It was, however, Rabiot who levelled in the 27th, leaving his marker behind to head home from Hernandez's cross.

With Mbappe moving more centrally, the Australia defence had one more problem to deal with and that was clear when the Paris St Germain forward's back heel inside the area was collected by Rabiot, who slid the ball across for Giroud to tap in.

They played more freely from then on, with Antoine Griezmann's low shot going just wide and Mbappe skying his attempt over the bar as he raced to meet Griezmann's cross from the right.

Australia kept France on their toes and came close shortly before halftime when Jackson Irvine's header grazed Hugo Lloris's right-hand post after a rebound.

Mbappe caused more chaos early in the second half but could not quite find the breakthrough, until he silenced the Australian fans, who in the first half were shouting 'Who are you?' at him, with a glancing header in the 68th minute.

Three minutes later, Giroud headed home from Mbappe's cross before falling on his back in apparent disbelief and being surrounded by his team mates in a goal celebration that lasted longer than usual, giving an exhilarating feel to France's win.

It took Giroud, who owed his place in the starting lineup to Benzema's absence, 115 international appearances to score his 51 goals, while Henry needed 123 from 1997-2010.

There were more chances for France through Hernandez and Ibrahima Konate but the result was satisfying enough, bearing in mind that in 2002 the defence of their title started with a 1-0 loss to Senegal and was followed by a first-round exit.

Olivier Giroud became France's joint all-time top scorer when his double helped the holders start the defence of their World Cup title in style with a 4-1 comeback Group D win against Australia on Tuesday.

Olivier Giroud became France's joint all-time top scorer when his double helped the holders start the defence of their World Cup title in style with a 4-1 comeback Group D win against Australia on Tuesday. Giroud found the net before and after the break to take his tally to 51 goals, matching Thierry Henry's mark, either side of a Kylian Mbappe goal after Adrien Rabiot had levelled following Craig Goodwin's shock early opener. Les Bleus are the first defending champions to win their opening match since Brazil in 2006, which has already put them in good position to advance from the group phase, something Italy in 2010, Spain in 2014 and Germany in 2018 failed to do. France, who lost defender Lucas Hernandez to a knee injury, have three points and lead Tunisia and Denmark by two after they played out a 0-0 draw on Tuesday. Didier Deschamps's France side, who started the tournament on the back of the disappointment of striker Karim Benzema being ruled out injured last Saturday, next face Denmark on Saturday. It was not quite the start France were expecting at the Al Janoub stadium. Goodwin smacked the ball into the roof of the net from Mathew Leckie's cross from the right, leaving Lucas Hernandez holding his right knee after being beaten to the ball after nine minutes. Hernandez's brother Theo came on as a substitute and France continued to struggle to create space, with only Mbappe threatening on his left flank. Exhilarating Feel Australia were much more direct, making the most of Les Bleus's non-existent midfield. It was, however, Rabiot who levelled in the 27th, leaving his marker behind to head home from Hernandez's cross. With Mbappe moving more centrally, the Australia defence had one more problem to deal with and that was clear when the Paris St Germain forward's back heel inside the area was collected by Rabiot, who slid the ball across for Giroud to tap in. They played more freely from then on, with Antoine Griezmann's low shot going just wide and Mbappe skying his attempt over the bar as he raced to meet Griezmann's cross from the right. Australia kept France on their toes and came close shortly before halftime when Jackson Irvine's header grazed Hugo Lloris's right-hand post after a rebound. Mbappe caused more chaos early in the second half but could not quite find the breakthrough, until he silenced the Australian fans, who in the first half were shouting 'Who are you?' at him, with a glancing header in the 68th minute. Three minutes later, Giroud headed home from Mbappe's cross before falling on his back in apparent disbelief and being surrounded by his team mates in a goal celebration that lasted longer than usual, giving an exhilarating feel to France's win. It took Giroud, who owed his place in the starting lineup to Benzema's absence, 115 international appearances to score his 51 goals, while Henry needed 123 from 1997-2010. There were more chances for France through Hernandez and Ibrahima Konate but the result was satisfying enough, bearing in mind that in 2002 the defence of their title started with a 1-0 loss to Senegal and was followed by a first-round exit.

FIFA World Cup 2022 | Giroud equals scoring record as France beat Australia in dominant opener

Defending champions France will open their campaign in the FIFA World Cup 2022 edition, in Qatar, by facing Australia in their opening fixture on Wednesday (November 23). This will be the second game in Group D after Denmark-Tunisia's face-off on Tuesday evening (November 22). A star-studded French line-up will start as favourites but will not take Australia lightly given how the tournament have already seen a big upset with Saudi Arabia's 2-1 win over favourites Argentina.

Talking about the French line-up, they have a superstar line-up at their disposal but have been marred with injury concerns. Midfielders Ngolo Kante and Paul Pogba, Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema and&nbsp;centre back Presnel Kimpembe's injury concerns have pushed France back a little before their opening clash but they will hope to get past the&nbsp;Socceroos, just like they did to commence their 2018 edition in Russia.

Here's everything to know about France vs Australia FIFA World Cup 2022 clash:

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-equals-cristiano-ronaldos-world-cup-record-with-penalty-against-saudi-arabia-536430">Lionel Messi equals Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup record with penalty against Saudi Arabia</a>

<h2>When is the France vs Australia match of the FIFA World Cup 2022?</h2>

The France vs Australia&nbsp;FIFA World Cup 2022 fixture, from Group D, will be played&nbsp;at the&nbsp;Lusail Stadium, Qatar.

<h2>What time will the match be telecast in India?</h2>

The match will commence&nbsp;at 12:30 AM IST in the wee hours on&nbsp;Wednesday&nbsp;(November 23).

<h2>Where can we watch the match live:&nbsp;Broadcast TV and OTT Channel in India?</h2>

In India, fans can enjoy the&nbsp;FIFA World Cup matches on TV on&nbsp;Sports18&nbsp;and Sports18 HD channels. Meanwhile, the live streaming will take place&nbsp;on the&nbsp;Jio Cinema app&nbsp;or website.

Defending champions France will open their campaign in the FIFA World Cup 2022 edition, in Qatar, by facing Australia in their opening fixture on Wednesday (November 23).

Defending champions France will open their campaign in the FIFA World Cup 2022 edition, in Qatar, by facing Australia in their opening fixture on Wednesday (November 23). This will be the second game in Group D after Denmark-Tunisia's face-off on Tuesday evening (November 22). A star-studded French line-up will start as favourites but will not take Australia lightly given how the tournament have already seen a big upset with Saudi Arabia's 2-1 win over favourites Argentina. Talking about the French line-up, they have a superstar line-up at their disposal but have been marred with injury concerns. Midfielders Ngolo Kante and Paul Pogba, Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema and centre back Presnel Kimpembe's injury concerns have pushed France back a little before their opening clash but they will hope to get past the Socceroos, just like they did to commence their 2018 edition in Russia. Here's everything to know about France vs Australia FIFA World Cup 2022 clash: Also read: Lionel Messi equals Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup record with penalty against Saudi Arabia When is the France vs Australia match of the FIFA World Cup 2022? The France vs Australia FIFA World Cup 2022 fixture, from Group D, will be played at the Lusail Stadium, Qatar. What time will the match be telecast in India? The match will commence at 12:30 AM IST in the wee hours on Wednesday (November 23). Where can we watch the match live: Broadcast TV and OTT Channel in India? In India, fans can enjoy the FIFA World Cup matches on TV on Sports18 and Sports18 HD channels. Meanwhile, the live streaming will take place on the Jio Cinema app or website.

FIFA World Cup 2022 Broadcast TV and OTT-Live Streaming: When and where to watch France vs Australia?

In a dramatic shootout, Australia beat Peru to clinch their place in the 2022 Qatar World Cup, which is set to be held later this year. Playing Peru at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Doha, on June 13, Australia held their nerves in what was a thrilling contest and grabbed their berth for the showpiece event with a 5-4 win in the penalty shootout after the regular time resulted in a 0-0 scoreline.

Thus, both sides were to be tested in the shootouts. While the penalties always put pressure on players but this time around, the crucial slot at Qatar for the finals was also to be determined by virtue of it. Australia's substitute goalkeeper Andrew Redmayne was the star as he was roped in just minutes before the end of play and finished with two stunning saves to guide his side to the World Cup for the fifth successive time.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-grabs-world-cup-berth-after-dramatic-penalty-shootout-against-peru-487921">Australia grabs FIFA World Cup berth after dramatic penalty shootout against Peru</a>

Redmayne danced around the goal line to distract the Peruvians and it worked wonders&nbsp;as Luis Advincila fired a shot against the post whereas Alex Valera's kick got saved. Following the result, a Aussie reporter couldn't manage to keep his calm while being on-air and rejoiced with&nbsp;fans and supporters on the streets. Here's the video of the reporter's reaction as it has gone viral in no time:

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BREAKING🧣 
Tony Armstrong get’s his mum’s hand knitted scarf back. 
Oh, and in other news: Australia to advance to the World Cup over Peru by a score of 5-4, after hours in a sudden death penalty shoot-out.<a href="https://twitter.com/Tonaaayy_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Tonaaayy_</a> <a href="https://t.co/HygD6R4aAs">pic.twitter.com/HygD6R4aAs</a>
— (SCA) SCOTT CHRISTIAN ANDERSON 🇦🇺🇨🇦🇳🇿 (@christianlexus) <a href="https://twitter.com/christianlexus/status/1536465703163019264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afc-asian-cup-qualifiers-india-afg-players-engage-in-ugly-brawl-after-chhetri-cos-2-1-win-watch-487669">AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers: India, AFG players engage in ugly brawl after Chhetri &amp; Co.'s 2-1 win - WATCH</a>

The reporter rejoiced and almost lost his mother's hand knitted-scarf to a fan as a group of Socceroos' supporters went berserk following their dramatic win. He, however, regained it back amid the plethora of out-of-control fans.

In the 2018&nbsp;FIFA World Cup, Australia lost to France and Peru in the group stage and only managed a draw versus Denmark. How far will they go in the forthcoming edition? Only time will tell...

In a dramatic shootout, Australia beat Peru to clinch their place in the 2022 Qatar World Cup, which is set to be held later this year. Playing Peru at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Doha, on June 13, Australia held their nerves in what was a thrilling contest and grabbed their berth for the showpiece event with a 5-4 win in the penalty shootout after the regular time resulted in a 0-0 scoreline.

In a dramatic shootout, Australia beat Peru to clinch their place in the 2022 Qatar World Cup, which is set to be held later this year. Playing Peru at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Doha, on June 13, Australia held their nerves in what was a thrilling contest and grabbed their berth for the showpiece event with a 5-4 win in the penalty shootout after the regular time resulted in a 0-0 scoreline. Thus, both sides were to be tested in the shootouts. While the penalties always put pressure on players but this time around, the crucial slot at Qatar for the finals was also to be determined by virtue of it. Australia's substitute goalkeeper Andrew Redmayne was the star as he was roped in just minutes before the end of play and finished with two stunning saves to guide his side to the World Cup for the fifth successive time. ALSO READ | Australia grabs FIFA World Cup berth after dramatic penalty shootout against Peru Redmayne danced around the goal line to distract the Peruvians and it worked wonders as Luis Advincila fired a shot against the post whereas Alex Valera's kick got saved. Following the result, a Aussie reporter couldn't manage to keep his calm while being on-air and rejoiced with fans and supporters on the streets. Here's the video of the reporter's reaction as it has gone viral in no time: BREAKING🧣 Tony Armstrong get’s his mum’s hand knitted scarf back. Oh, and in other news: Australia to advance to the World Cup over Peru by a score of 5-4, after hours in a sudden death penalty shoot-out.@Tonaaayy_ pic.twitter.com/HygD6R4aAs — (SCA) SCOTT CHRISTIAN ANDERSON 🇦🇺🇨🇦🇳🇿 (@christianlexus) June 13, 2022 × ALSO READ | AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers: India, AFG players engage in ugly brawl after Chhetri & Co.'s 2-1 win - WATCH The reporter rejoiced and almost lost his mother's hand knitted-scarf to a fan as a group of Socceroos' supporters went berserk following their dramatic win. He, however, regained it back amid the plethora of out-of-control fans. In the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Australia lost to France and Peru in the group stage and only managed a draw versus Denmark. How far will they go in the forthcoming edition? Only time will tell...

WATCH: Reporter cannot keep calm after Australia grabs FIFA World Cup berth with win over Peru

Ante Milicic, the coach of Australia women's football team has quit on Sunday as the Tokyo Olympics have been pushed to 2021 due to coronavirus pandemic. The ex-Socceroos assistant was set to manage the Sam Kerr-led Matildas at Tokyo 2020 this month but has decided not to continue after the Games were postponed for a year.

Ante Milicic, the coach of Australia women's football team has quit on Sunday as the Tokyo Olympics have been pushed to 2021 due to coronavirus pandemic. The ex-Socceroos assistant was set to manage the Sam Kerr-led Matildas at Tokyo 2020 this month but has decided not to continue after the Games were postponed for a year. Also read: Olympic figure skater Ekaterina Alexandrovskaya dies aged 20 Milicic was set to manage A League's Macarthur FC after the Olympics. He was due to sign a three-year deal with the team. "I have enjoyed the past 18 months with the Matildas immensely and, in an ideal world, we would have been in Japan right now just days away from the start of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games," he said. "Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic and the rescheduling of the Games has created the unenviable situation where people will assess whether I have chosen one team over another. "Truth be told, I have simply chosen to honour the commitment I made to Macarthur over a year ago." Milicic succeeded Alen Stajcic, who was sacked in controversial circumstances in February 2019. Football Federation Australia chief James Johnson said he would "have loved" Milicic to stay but managing two teams at the same time was not workable. A recruitment drive would begin immediately and "we expect there will be no shortage of interest in this prestigious role," he added, with Australia due to host the 2023 Women's World Cup alongside New Zealand. (Inputs from AFP)

Australia women's football coach Milicic quits after delay in Tokyo Olympics

Bahrain on Monday said it could still pursue further legal proceedings against <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/thailand-considers-dropping-bahraini-footballer-extradition-prosecution-source-196642">Bahraini refugee football player Hakeem al-Araibi</a> after the Thai criminal court dropped the deportation case that would have extradited him back to his native land.&nbsp;

Araibi was released earlier in the day from prison in Bangkok after nearly 80 days in detention and was on his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-supporters-cheer-refugee-bahraini-footballer-freed-from-thai-jail-196814">way back to Australia</a>, putting an end to the case that caused an international outcry.

"The Kingdom of Bahrain reaffirms its right to pursue all necessary legal actions against Mr. Al Araibi," the foreign ministry said in a statement, issued by the state-run news agency BNA.

Chatchom Akapin, director general of International Affairs, told EFE that Bahrain had contacted the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs to say it was withdrawing its extradition request for 25-year-old Araibi.

The Criminal Court accepted the petition at 3pm local time, Chatchom added.

The former Bahraini national football player fled Bahrain to Australia in 2014 after he was tried in absentia and sentenced to 10 years in prison on charges of vandalising a police station during Arab uprising protests, which he denies.

Araibi traveled to Bangkok along with his wife to spend their honeymoon on November 27 and was detained upon his arrival following an erroneous Interpol red notice was issued.

Although the red notice was later withdrawn, Bahrain requested his extradition to face his vandalism charges.

Araibi is a recognised refugee with Australian residency and fears for his life if he were to be returned to his homeland, where he claimed he was tortured in 2012.

Australia had repeatedly demanded Araibi's return, but Thailand insisted his case had to go through the required judicial process.&nbsp;

Araibi's case sparked attention and widespread condemnation from governments, rights groups and the international sporting community since his detention.

Former Australian football captain Craig Foster, who has been petitioning the international sporting community for Araibi's release, said on Twitter the most important thing now was his wellbeing.

"Sure Embassy staff will take care of him, there will be tears there tonight, as there are in our household right now," Foster said on Twitter.

Last month, Araibi's wife had issued an emotional plea in a letter to the Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha to release her husband.

"His future lies in your hands_ Please save my husband," she said.&nbsp;

Bahrain on Monday said it could still pursue further legal proceedings against Bahraini refugee football player Hakeem al-Araibi after the Thai criminal court dropped the deportation case that would have extradited him back to his native land.

Bahrain on Monday said it could still pursue further legal proceedings against Bahraini refugee football player Hakeem al-Araibi after the Thai criminal court dropped the deportation case that would have extradited him back to his native land. Araibi was released earlier in the day from prison in Bangkok after nearly 80 days in detention and was on his way back to Australia, putting an end to the case that caused an international outcry. "The Kingdom of Bahrain reaffirms its right to pursue all necessary legal actions against Mr. Al Araibi," the foreign ministry said in a statement, issued by the state-run news agency BNA. Chatchom Akapin, director general of International Affairs, told EFE that Bahrain had contacted the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs to say it was withdrawing its extradition request for 25-year-old Araibi. The Criminal Court accepted the petition at 3pm local time, Chatchom added. The former Bahraini national football player fled Bahrain to Australia in 2014 after he was tried in absentia and sentenced to 10 years in prison on charges of vandalising a police station during Arab uprising protests, which he denies. Araibi traveled to Bangkok along with his wife to spend their honeymoon on November 27 and was detained upon his arrival following an erroneous Interpol red notice was issued. Although the red notice was later withdrawn, Bahrain requested his extradition to face his vandalism charges. Araibi is a recognised refugee with Australian residency and fears for his life if he were to be returned to his homeland, where he claimed he was tortured in 2012. Australia had repeatedly demanded Araibi's return, but Thailand insisted his case had to go through the required judicial process. Araibi's case sparked attention and widespread condemnation from governments, rights groups and the international sporting community since his detention. Former Australian football captain Craig Foster, who has been petitioning the international sporting community for Araibi's release, said on Twitter the most important thing now was his wellbeing. "Sure Embassy staff will take care of him, there will be tears there tonight, as there are in our household right now," Foster said on Twitter. Last month, Araibi's wife had issued an emotional plea in a letter to the Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha to release her husband. "His future lies in your hands_ Please save my husband," she said.

Bahrain says can still pursue further legal action against Hakeem al-Araibi

Football Federation Australia have ramped up their campaign to free jailed Bahraini refugee player Hakeem Al Araibi and pledged A$10,000 ($7,263) on Tuesday to kickstart a fundraising drive to help efforts to have him returned to Australia from Thailand.

Araibi was arrested in Thailand last November on behalf of the Bahraini government. A Bangkok court on Monday ordered him to continue be detained for another two months until an extradition hearing could be held.

The FFA and Australian Government, as well as football's world governing body FIFA and the international players' union FIFPro have all advocated for the release of Araibi, who has said he fears for his safety if he is returned to Bahrain.

"Hakeem Al-Araibi is a permanent Australian resident and footballer at Pascoe Vale FC," FFA chief executive David Gallop said in a statement on Tuesday.

"After a thorough process, he was assessed by the Australian Government to be a refugee. This is a fundamental human right that must be protected.

"We ask that the Government of Thailand release Hakeem to safely return to his family and home in Australia as a matter of urgency."

Teams from Australia's top level men's A-League and women's W-League were photographed ahead of their matches last weekend behind #SaveHakeem banners.

"The level of support for Hakeem went up another level over the weekend," Gallop added.

"More and more fans and players are actively calling for Hakeem to be released, both in Australia and around the world.

"I urge this vocal support to continue."

Araibi, who fled Bahrain in 2014 before being granted permanent residence in Australia, where he played for Melbourne's second tier Pascoe Vale soccer club, was arrested on an Interpol notice issued at Bahrain's request.

Interpol later cancelled the notice.

Araibi was tortured by Bahraini authorities because of his brother's political activities during the Arab Spring uprising in 2011, New York-based Human Rights Watch has said.

Bahraini authorities deny allegations of torture.

Araibi was convicted of vandalising a police station in Bahrain and was sentenced to 10 years in prison in absentia.

He denies wrongdoing, saying he was playing in a televised soccer match at the time of the alleged vandalism.

Football Federation Australia have ramped up their campaign to free jailed Bahraini refugee player Hakeem Al Araibi and pledged A$10,000 ($7,263) on Tuesday to kickstart a fundraising drive to help efforts to have him returned to Australia from Thailand.

Football Federation Australia have ramped up their campaign to free jailed Bahraini refugee player Hakeem Al Araibi and pledged A$10,000 ($7,263) on Tuesday to kickstart a fundraising drive to help efforts to have him returned to Australia from Thailand. Araibi was arrested in Thailand last November on behalf of the Bahraini government. A Bangkok court on Monday ordered him to continue be detained for another two months until an extradition hearing could be held. The FFA and Australian Government, as well as football's world governing body FIFA and the international players' union FIFPro have all advocated for the release of Araibi, who has said he fears for his safety if he is returned to Bahrain. "Hakeem Al-Araibi is a permanent Australian resident and footballer at Pascoe Vale FC," FFA chief executive David Gallop said in a statement on Tuesday. "After a thorough process, he was assessed by the Australian Government to be a refugee. This is a fundamental human right that must be protected. "We ask that the Government of Thailand release Hakeem to safely return to his family and home in Australia as a matter of urgency." Teams from Australia's top level men's A-League and women's W-League were photographed ahead of their matches last weekend behind #SaveHakeem banners. "The level of support for Hakeem went up another level over the weekend," Gallop added. "More and more fans and players are actively calling for Hakeem to be released, both in Australia and around the world. "I urge this vocal support to continue." Araibi, who fled Bahrain in 2014 before being granted permanent residence in Australia, where he played for Melbourne's second tier Pascoe Vale soccer club, was arrested on an Interpol notice issued at Bahrain's request. Interpol later cancelled the notice. Araibi was tortured by Bahraini authorities because of his brother's political activities during the Arab Spring uprising in 2011, New York-based Human Rights Watch has said. Bahraini authorities deny allegations of torture. Araibi was convicted of vandalising a police station in Bahrain and was sentenced to 10 years in prison in absentia. He denies wrongdoing, saying he was playing in a televised soccer match at the time of the alleged vandalism.

Australia soccer body ramps up campaign to free jailed Bahraini refugee

Former Australia coach Ange Postecoglou has cast doubt on Usain Bolt's hopes of re-inventing himself as a soccer player and earning a professional A-League contract at the age of 32.

The Olympic champion sprinter is trialing at Central Coast Mariners in Australia's top flight and scored two goals in a pre-season match a week ago.

However, the Jamaican has yet to be offered a contract, and most soccer pundits in Australia have questioned his ability to break into the league.

Postecoglou, who won back-to-back A-League titles as coach of Brisbane Roar, said "good on" Bolt for trying but the 53-year-old was quick to underline the scale of his task.

"It seems to have got some good attention for Central Coast Mariners, the club there," Postecoglou, now coaching Japanese club Yokohama, told local media.

"But beyond that I've always believed that football is one of those sports that's very, very difficult to just change from one to the other.

"If you haven't done it from a very small age and hone your technique and skills, (it's) very, very difficult at a later age to switch to our sport and play at the highest level."

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Earlier this week, Bolt was offered a two-year deal by Valletta FC, local champions in the tiny Mediterranean island state of Malta, but turned it down, ESPN reported, citing his manager.

Former Australia coach Ange Postecoglou has cast doubt on Usain Bolt's hopes of re-inventing himself as a soccer player and earning a professional A-League contract at the age of 32.

Former Australia coach Ange Postecoglou has cast doubt on Usain Bolt's hopes of re-inventing himself as a soccer player and earning a professional A-League contract at the age of 32. The Olympic champion sprinter is trialing at Central Coast Mariners in Australia's top flight and scored two goals in a pre-season match a week ago. However, the Jamaican has yet to be offered a contract, and most soccer pundits in Australia have questioned his ability to break into the league. Postecoglou, who won back-to-back A-League titles as coach of Brisbane Roar, said "good on" Bolt for trying but the 53-year-old was quick to underline the scale of his task. "It seems to have got some good attention for Central Coast Mariners, the club there," Postecoglou, now coaching Japanese club Yokohama, told local media. "But beyond that I've always believed that football is one of those sports that's very, very difficult to just change from one to the other. "If you haven't done it from a very small age and hone your technique and skills, (it's) very, very difficult at a later age to switch to our sport and play at the highest level." × Earlier this week, Bolt was offered a two-year deal by Valletta FC, local champions in the tiny Mediterranean island state of Malta, but turned it down, ESPN reported, citing his manager.

Former Australia boss Ange Postecoglou doubtful on Usain Bolt's football hopes

Olympic champion sprinter Usain Bolt has been offered a two-year contract to play soccer with a Maltese club, ESPN reported, triggering speculation he may be set to walk out from his trial at Australian team Central Coast Mariners.

Maltese champions Valletta FC said they hoped to sign the eight-times Olympic gold medallist in time for him to participate in their Maltese Super Cup match on Dec. 13 against Balzan.

"A champion is always welcome and at Valletta FC we believe nothing is impossible," ESPN quoted Valletta managing director and CEO Ghasston Slimen as saying.

Bolt's agent in Australia, Tony Rallis, had also confirmed the approach, ESPN said.

Bolt scored two goals for the Mariners in a pre-season trial match on Friday but has not been offered a professional contract by the A-League team.

A Mariners spokesman said there was no change in Bolt's position at the club, describing reports that he might quit his trial as "rumours".

The 32-year-old Jamaican has repeatedly expressed his hope to win a contract ahead of the Mariners' 2018-19 A-League campaign which kicks off this weekend.

Most Australian soccer pundits said Bolt had shown signs of improvement and better fitness in the Mariners' 4-0 win over an amateur local side on Friday but felt he was some way off the level of being able to compete in the Australian top flight.

Olympic champion sprinter Usain Bolt has been offered a two-year contract to play soccer with a Maltese club, ESPN reported, triggering speculation he may be set to walk out from his trial at Australian team Central Coast Mariners.

Olympic champion sprinter Usain Bolt has been offered a two-year contract to play soccer with a Maltese club, ESPN reported, triggering speculation he may be set to walk out from his trial at Australian team Central Coast Mariners. Maltese champions Valletta FC said they hoped to sign the eight-times Olympic gold medallist in time for him to participate in their Maltese Super Cup match on Dec. 13 against Balzan. "A champion is always welcome and at Valletta FC we believe nothing is impossible," ESPN quoted Valletta managing director and CEO Ghasston Slimen as saying. Bolt's agent in Australia, Tony Rallis, had also confirmed the approach, ESPN said. Bolt scored two goals for the Mariners in a pre-season trial match on Friday but has not been offered a professional contract by the A-League team. A Mariners spokesman said there was no change in Bolt's position at the club, describing reports that he might quit his trial as "rumours". The 32-year-old Jamaican has repeatedly expressed his hope to win a contract ahead of the Mariners' 2018-19 A-League campaign which kicks off this weekend. Most Australian soccer pundits said Bolt had shown signs of improvement and better fitness in the Mariners' 4-0 win over an amateur local side on Friday but felt he was some way off the level of being able to compete in the Australian top flight.

Usain Bolt offered two-year contract with Maltese club: Report

Australian midfielder Mile Jedinak announced his retirement from international football on Monday, bringing the curtain down on a 79-cap career which included leading the Socceroos at two World Cups.

The Aston Villa player led his country at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and this year's tournament in Russia, having also captained the side to an Asian Cup triumph on home soil in 2015.

The 34-year-old announced his decision in a lengthy Instagram post, three months before Australia launch their continental title defence in the United Arab Emirates.

"I can confirm that after much deliberation I have made the decision to retire from playing international football," Jedinak wrote.

"As a young boy growing up, it was my dream to play for Australia and to pull on the famous green and gold shirt to represent my country.

"To have been given the opportunity to not only fulfil that dream, but to have done it 79 times, and many of which as captain, makes me incredibly proud and thankful."

Jedinak, who also played at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, scored 20 goals for his country, a majority of them from the penalty spot, including both of Australia's tallies in their group stage exit in Russia.

"It is an enormous privilege to represent your country and one I did not take lightly," Jedinak said. "Words will never be able to do justice the feeling of immense pride I felt when representing Australia.

"I gave everything I had in every single game I played to try and achieve success for our nation.

"However, after a huge amount of time reflecting and discussing with those closest with me, I feel that it is the right time to move aside in order to focus on my club football and prolonging that journey."

Football Federation Australia (FFA) thanked Jedinak for his contribution to the national side and called him a "great role model" for the country's footballers.

Head coach Graham Arnold also paid tribute.

"Mile has been great leader for the Socceroos and great player for Australia," Arnold said in FFA statement. "He is held in fantastic regard by his team mates, the coaches and staff that have worked with him, as well as the fans.

"I congratulate Mile on a superb international career, and now look forward to seeing other squad members step up as Socceroos leaders after the international retirements of Mile and Tim Cahill."

Australian midfielder Mile Jedinak announced his retirement from international football on Monday, bringing the curtain down on a 79-cap career which included leading the Socceroos at two World Cups.

Australian midfielder Mile Jedinak announced his retirement from international football on Monday, bringing the curtain down on a 79-cap career which included leading the Socceroos at two World Cups. The Aston Villa player led his country at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and this year's tournament in Russia, having also captained the side to an Asian Cup triumph on home soil in 2015. The 34-year-old announced his decision in a lengthy Instagram post, three months before Australia launch their continental title defence in the United Arab Emirates. "I can confirm that after much deliberation I have made the decision to retire from playing international football," Jedinak wrote. "As a young boy growing up, it was my dream to play for Australia and to pull on the famous green and gold shirt to represent my country. "To have been given the opportunity to not only fulfil that dream, but to have done it 79 times, and many of which as captain, makes me incredibly proud and thankful." Jedinak, who also played at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, scored 20 goals for his country, a majority of them from the penalty spot, including both of Australia's tallies in their group stage exit in Russia. "It is an enormous privilege to represent your country and one I did not take lightly," Jedinak said. "Words will never be able to do justice the feeling of immense pride I felt when representing Australia. "I gave everything I had in every single game I played to try and achieve success for our nation. "However, after a huge amount of time reflecting and discussing with those closest with me, I feel that it is the right time to move aside in order to focus on my club football and prolonging that journey." Football Federation Australia (FFA) thanked Jedinak for his contribution to the national side and called him a "great role model" for the country's footballers. Head coach Graham Arnold also paid tribute. "Mile has been great leader for the Socceroos and great player for Australia," Arnold said in FFA statement. "He is held in fantastic regard by his team mates, the coaches and staff that have worked with him, as well as the fans. "I congratulate Mile on a superb international career, and now look forward to seeing other squad members step up as Socceroos leaders after the international retirements of Mile and Tim Cahill."

Australia's Mile Jedinak announces international retirement