Socceroos confirm Verbeek showdown with Oman clash

Football Federation Australia have confirmed an international against Oman will take place on Sunday night (AEDT), in what shapes as a return match for former Socceroos boss Pim Verbeek.

Pim Verbeek, right, and Graham Arnold during the 2010 FIFA World Cup Source: Getty Images

As revealed by The World Game last month, Australia - coached by Graham Arnold - will play Oman, led by former Socceroos mentor Pim Verbeek, at Dubai’s Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum Stadium on Sunday 30 December 2018 at 11:00pm (AEDT). 

“With limited days to prepare for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup," Arnold said.  

"Sunday’s match against Oman represents a great opportunity for us to refresh some of the principles that we worked on during our September, October, and November camps.”

The squad is yet to be confirmed for the fixture, but the match is expected to be used by Arnold to fine tune preparations for the Asian Cup.

“Importantly, the game against Oman will serve as a great chance to provide players that haven’t played as regularly with their clubs match minutes against a strong west Asian nation," Arnold said.

Oman coach Verbeek was in charge of the Socceroos' push for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, with the Dutchman leaving the managerial role after Australia's group stage departure.

“It will also be nice to see Pim [Verbeek] again," Arnold said.

"We shared many great memories with the Socceroos and he has done a fantastic job with Oman. We are expecting a tough match but also a game played in a great spirit as both nations prepare for the tournament proper."