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The match will take place in either June or November depending on next year's fixture schedule.

And the Italians have said they want it to be held in Australia if possible, although there is a chance it could have to take place in Italy if necessary.

The game and Italy's support for the World Cup bid was revealed at a press conference in Sydney today.

It also revealed the two countries had signed an agreement to share resources in future years.

FFA Chairman, Frank Lowy, and the President of the Federazione Italiana Giuoco Calcio (FIGC or Italian Football Federation), Dr Giancarlo Abete, signed the agreement in Sydney just prior to the official start of the Opening Ceremony of the FIFA World Congress.

“Italy and Australia have long had a close relationship at all levels because of the large number of Australians of Italian origin,” said Mr Lowy.

“The Italian football team is also one of the great exponents of football and has thrilled many football fans over the years.

“This agreement reinforces the depth of the relationship between our countries, and also broadens it to include our shared passion for the beautiful game.”

The agreement includes the sharing of resources and expertise, including technical exchange in the areas of coaching, referees, game development, youth football, women’s football, sports science and medicine and others.

“This is an exchange in every sense of the word,” Mr Lowy said.

“In some areas, the FIGC clearly offer great experience and expertise, and in other areas Australia does.”

The FIGC will also provide advice and expertise to FFA in developing the ‘Home of Football’ in Australia which is to include a technical centre and a domestic training base for Australia’s nine national teams.

Mr Lowy said the agreement also covers cooperation in the staging of international friendly matches between the men’s and women’s teams at all age groups as well as Futsal.

“The ‘Azzurri’ defeated us on the field in Germany in a very hard fought battle between us, and they went on to win the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

“We are delighted to form this relationship with FIGC,” Mr Lowy said.

To see the Socceroos training ahead of the Iraq game...

To see the new Socceroo portraits...

To see the Socceroos lighting up the Harbour Bridge...