SYDNEY, Jan. 5 (Xinhua) -- Security has been boosted at Australia's Asian Cup venues in preparation for the largest soccer tournament in the world this year, authorities said on Monday.
Canberra Stadium has been in lockdown mode since December 30 and security guards are stationed at the venue on a 24-hour basis. McKellar Park and Deakin Stadium, which will be used as training venues, were closed from 6 a.m. on Sunday and security guards are at each ground.
Competition begins at Canberra Stadium on January 9 with South Korea playing Oman in the first of seven games to be played at the venue.
All tournament venues in the five host cities across Australia Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Newcastle and Canberra were handed over to the Asian Cup local organising committee 10 days before the start of the event to ensure they are clear of all advertising and to comply with security measures to protect teams and spectators.
Security staff will accompany teams at their hotels and whenever they travel to and from their training and match venues, an Asian Cup spokesman said.
The Asian Football Confederation had asked Australia to increase security for the Asian Cup after last month's deadly hostage siege in Sydney.
A spokesman for the Asian Cup local organising committee said the organisation had worked closely with Australian governments and security authorities.
"Our aim is to deliver a safe, secure and friendly tournament," the spokesman said in a statement on Monday.
"Australia has hosted a number of high-profile international events and has a strong reputation for ensuring they are delivered safely and successfully.
"The security model will enable players and fans to enjoy the events while ensuring the safety and security of fans, players and the Australian community.
"Contingency arrangements are in place to ensure a responsive and flexible security overlay."
The Asian Cup is the largest soccer tournament in the world this year and will have an estimated television viewing audience of 1 billion people.