AFC confirms Lebanon withdrawal request

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) today confirmed that it had received a request from the Lebanese FA to withdraw from the 2007 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers. Australia is currently scheduled to play Lebanon at Adelaide Oval on 31 August and again in Beirut on 15 November.

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) today confirmed that it had received a request from the Lebanese FA to withdraw from the 2007 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers.

Australia is currently scheduled to play Lebanon at Adelaide Oval on 31 August and again in Beirut on 15 November.

After an emergency meeting of the AFC Management Board the withdrawal request was referred to the AFC Competitions Committee who will decide on the appropriate outcomes by Thursday 3 August.

Football Federation Australia CEO Mr John O'Neill said the FFA would continue to make preparations for the matches until official advice to the contrary from the AFC.

"It is extremely disappointing that due to such terrible circumstances the Lebanese FA have requested to withdraw from the 2007 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers," said FFA CEO Mr John O'Neill.

"Our best wishes are extended to the Lebanese FA and we look forward to receiving the outcomes of the Competitions Committee on Thursday."