It was hailed as a great victory for Australian-Chinese relations on Albo’s watch… but now alarm bells are ringing about what really happened when the Socceroos went to Beijing

When the Socceroos landed a highly anticipated rematch with world champions Argentina in Beijing, it was hailed as a political win for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and a sign tensions been Australia and China were thawing.

But the Opposition has sounded the alarm about the promoter behind the tour, China Rainbow International, having links to the Chinese Communist Party.

Football Australia sought guidance from the Department of Foreign Affairs about the deal, but were not instructed against participating.

Now, it can be revealed DFAT was aware about China Rainbow’s connection to United Front – a group of organisations that work to improve the Chinese Communist Party’s legitimacy and influence…