Australian soccer takes step toward Asia
(Agencies)
Updated: 2005-04-18 10:32

Australia was released from its Oceania soccer group Sunday, moving a step closer to joining the Asian confederation.

Soccer's international governing body must now give its expected approval. Then Australia can attempt to qualify for the 2010 World Cup through the tougher Asian group.

Transfer plans began in March when the Asian confederation endorsed Australia's bid to join Asia. The deal then required a release from Oceania. Oceania is the only FIFA confederation that does not have a guaranteed spot in the World Cup.

Australia plays the Solomon Islands in a two-game playoff later this year to determine the Oceania champion. That winner plays the fifth-placed South American team for the right to play in Germany in the World Cup next year.

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