NZF lends support to Aussie World Cup bid

New Zealand Football (NZF) has lent its support to Australia's bid to host the soccer World Cup in either 2018 or 2022.

The day after losing a friendly 1-2 to Australia, the All Whites unveiled a banner in Melbourne today with the words `FIFA, pass us the ball and Come Play!'.

NZF chairman Frank van Hattum said an Australian-hosted World Cup would be a unique opportunity for New Zealand sporting fans.

"World Cup participation has done wonders for the game in Australia and the signs are it could have a similar effect in New Zealand, but having the world's biggest sporting event in our neighbourhood would take the game to new heights on both sides of the Tasman," van Hattum said.

He said the close ties Football Federation Australia had maintained with both NZF and the Oceania Football Confederation, meant New Zealand was a natural ally.

- NZPA