World Footy News

It seems the International Cup has stirred someone in control of the Age's Real Footy website to run a poll (at time of writing) asking "Should the AFL look at hosting a football World Cup, including an Australian team?"

It's nice to see the topic being raised in a mainstream site, although even as advocates for international footy, we're also realistic enough to know that most versions of an Australian side would be far too good. Although we've seem massive score blow-outs between the top and bottom sides, there has at least been the knowledge that the top few sides had a genuine shot at the title.

The presence of an Aussie team would pretty much wipe out that possibility. So do we want a World Cup? One day, absolutely. Soon? Only if the Australian side was very much restricted, such as an All-Australian under 18 team, or All-Australian under 20 amateur team. Perhaps in that context it would be a good idea, along with higher and lower divisions. It would certainly help increase the public exposure for the tournament, would probably make fundraising easier for the other teams, and would be a good way to test the best few teams. But bear in mind the difference recently displayed between New Zealand and country Victorian side Maffra - so again, the Aussie side would need heavy restrictions. Make up your own mind and visit the site to vote.