Kualalumpur: The Asian Football Confederation is requesting extra security for the Asian Cup in Australia following the siege at a Sydney cafe that left two hostages dead.
The AFC expressed "serious concerns over the safety and security of teams, media and fans" for the tournament that will be held Jan. 9-31 at five venues in Australia.
AFC general secretary Dato' Alex Soosay says the confederation has asked Australian organizers "to provide extra security in team and AFC hotels as well as police escorts for all official activities" as well as an "increase in security across all venues."
Sydney is one of five host venues, along with Newcastle, Brisbane, Canberra and Melbourne.
Soosay says the AFC "can in no way put the safety of the players, fans and media at stake."
