PERTH’S new stadium has the tempting opportunity to host the Socceroos before the squad flies out to the World Cup in Russia next year.

But to seize that opportunity, the WA Government must move quickly and stump up a financial package to fend off opposition from the likes of Sydney and Melbourne. Tourism WA confirmed on Friday that discussions were taking place.

After the Socceroos clinched a World Cup place on Wednesday, Football Federation of Australia chief executive David Gallop told The Sunday Timesthat Perth ticked all the boxes for a farewell match, partly because of the reduced travel time to and from Europe.

The potential opponent for that clash is Italy but other European giants, including England, are also in the frame. The match would be early next year where there is a FIFA window from March 19-27, which is left open for international friendlies.

This is a rare timeslot on the soccer calendar where countries will be available to play who they want in the lead-up to the World Cup.

“March is the next opportunity and off the back of this week it would make sense to look for a big opponent to be played in Australia,” Mr Gallop said. “The chance is there for State governments and stadiums to put their best foot forward and bid for the game.

“The new stadium at Perth will be brilliant and the travel distance is advantageous for European nations and our own players who play there.

“Unashamedly we need a good financial result but pitch quality and travel are important too, and Perth is certainly expected to tick both those boxes.”

When asked if England could be an opponent in March, Mr Gallop said: “It would be a sure-fire blockbuster.”

But Italy’s failure to qualify for Russia makes them an easier opponent to entice.

The Sunday Times understands the FFA is exploring the possibility of a clash with the Azzurri — Italy’s national team. Holland’s failure to qualify puts them in the frame as well.

The WA Government has a multi-million dollar budget to attract major events.

For example, it is paying up to $5 million to stage the Bledisloe Cup clash between the Wallabies and All Blacks in 2019.

The Barnett government also committed an undisclosed sum to bring English Premier League champions Chelsea to Perth for a friendly match against Perth Glory in late July or early August next year.

On Friday, Tourism WA’s executive director events Saskia Doherty said: “The State Government assesses each event opportunity to determine whether it fits event funding criteria, annual budgets and our strategy to boost tourism in WA.”

“We remain in discussion with relevant parties regarding potential opportunities for hosting the Socceroos in the future.”

WA Sport Minister Mick Murray said he would love to see the Socceroos play in Perth before the World Cup.

“I’d welcome any talks that are happening between the Socceroos and Tourism WA,” he said.

“And I’d encourage all parties to make it happen.”

The Socceroos’ qualification for the world’s most watched sporting event is a major boost for the code in Australia.

It coincided with the latest data from by the Australian Sports Commission, confirming the round ball game as the No.1 participation team sport in WA.

The 32-nation World Cup runs from June 14 to July 15

Perth Stadium could host Socceroo’s farewell match before World Cup