体坛英语新闻：Australian fans "disappointed" after opener but passionate for 2022 Wolrd Cup bid

Back home in Australia, fans were dressed in gold and green. They came to Sydney city center in groups with friends or with family braving the late autumn cold in front of a big screen in the city center's open space. The game kicked off around four Monday morning in Australia, which proves fans' passion.

"Disappointed, very disappointed," Many fans found it hard to accept the reality. But they said the Australian team's defeat did not completely blow their enthusiasm and confidence.

Some fans said, no matter what sort of scores, they fully support the soccoroos.

More importantly, they will show the warmth and embrace that the Australians have to the World Cup and will set a good image for the Australian bid to host the 2022 World Cup.

Andrew, a 20-year-old from Sydney, had booked the tickets to South Africa a year before, and has had a long wait to the opening of the World Cup. "We hope to contribute our efforts for the bid to host the World Cup, let the world hear the voice of Australia," Andrew said.

The President of the Australian Football Association Frank Lowy said Monday the enthusiasm of the fans will greatly enhance Australia's football in the world influence after visiting the Australian campsite.

Federal Sports Minister Kate Ellis shows her surprise that 43,000 World Cup tickets were sold in Australia. "Now, who could say that Australians lack enthusiasm in football!" she said.

In December 2010, the FIFA Executive Committee will decide the hosting cities for World Cup 2018 and 2022.