FOOTBALL Federation Australia claims it wanted the Socceroos to play Thailand at Suncorp Stadium until the Queensland government withdrew its bid to host the World Cup qualifier.

The blame game continues after FFA’s weekend confirmation that the September 5 match will take place at Melbourne’s AAMI Park.

Brisbane hasn’t hosted a World Cup qualifier since June 2012.

The state government, via Tourism and Events Queensland, insists an offer was made “in good faith” to host the Socceroos-Thailand match.

But FFA said the offer was taken off the table by TEQ due to “commercial” issues understood to include ground signage.

media_camera Tomi Juric celebrates a goal against Saudi Arabia in the Socceroos’ World Cup qualifier win at Adelaide Oval. Picture: Sarah Reed

“Football Federation Australia’s track record is strong in taking major matches including FIFA World Cup qualifying matches to Australia’s major state capitals,” an FFA spokesman said.

“For this reason we offered the Socceroos-Thailand game to Queensland exclusively and spent many weeks in negotiation, being clear about what was and was not possible.

“Ultimately aspects of the commercial rights did not suit Queensland and they withdrew from the process.

“FFA then pursued alternative locations and reached agreement with the Victorian Government to host this vitally important match in Melbourne.

“We will continue to look for opportunities to play international matches in Queensland in the future.”

TEQ group executive Megan Saunders said: “Our focus is getting value for Queensland taxpayers and delivering positive tourism outcomes.”

Originally published as Qld government withdrew Cup qualifier bid: FFA