Brisbane Roar has confirmed it will face Scottish powerhouse Celtic in July in a pre-season friendly.
Current Roar players Craig Moore and Charlie Miller both know what it’s like to face the Hoops in big matches, having both spent time with fierce rivals Rangers.
The match will also feature some friendly rivalry with Moore coming face-to-face with Socceroos team-mate Scott McDonald, who has been in sensational form in the Scottish Premier League.
“Brisbane captain Craig Moore and Hyundai A-League Foreign Player of the Year Charlie Miller both had distinguished careers at Glasgow Rangers and know what it means to face Celtic,” Brisbane general manager Peter McLennan said.
“This is a contest that should excite every football fan in Queensland, not just those who follow the famous green and white hoops.”
Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell said the club was delighted to accept the invitation to play in Australia.
“Celtic is fortunate to enjoy the support of millions of people worldwide and it will be a great privilege to ensure that many of our Australian supporters have the chance to see the team play in their own country,” he said.
“As well as playing in the match we are hoping to stage a number of other supporter events and we are sure we will make this a trip to remember for Celtic and its fans.”
Queensland Premier Anna Bligh made the announcement on Sunday, beating clubs from Japan and the USA for the right to host the Scottish giants.
“We made a strong case and to their credit the canny Scots decided that the most attractive proposal was to play at Suncorp Stadium,” Ms Bligh said.
“Given the enormous fan base Celtic has throughout the world, we are expecting their game against the Roar to be a sellout.”
“It will bring thousands of people to Brisbane and will not only boost the game’s profile in Queensland, but will provide a much-needed economic boost.”
The match will be played at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday July 12.
