Minister for Sport and Recreation Stuart Ayres says he’s looking forward to joining Australians experiencing sleep deprivation in June as our Socceroos take on the football might of Europe and South America in the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Mr Ayres has given his personal message of support to the Socceroos following last night’s home friendly against South Africa resulting in a 1-1 draw in front of over 50,000 fans at ANZ Stadium.

The Socceroos now have just one more warm up game away against Croatia on 6 June before the world’s greatest sporting event kicks off on 13 June 2014, with the green and gold starting its campaign the following day against Chile.

And keeping warm will be key for supporters, with 2am starts against the Netherlands (19 June) and Spain (24 June) putting scarves, beanies and blankets to good use!

“’I’ll be joining the hordes of fans glued to TV screens as Australia faces some of the toughest games of the first round,” said Mr Ayres.

“There’s no doubt we’re up against it; with pre-tournament favourites Spain and Netherlands in our Group, not to mention South American powerhouse Chile. The Socceroos have a huge challenge ahead of them.

“But not even the cold and dark of a mid-winter’s night can dampen the enthusiasm and support of Australian sports fans!

“We are all so proud of the team for getting this far. It’s a tremendous achievement, and a great refection of the standard of Australian football at home and in overseas leagues, to qualify for a World Cup.

“So let’s all really get behind the Socceroos and enjoy the adventure,” he said.