The Matildas are set to commence their campaign in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, with the tournament kicking off on March 1, 2024, in Australia. This marks a significant occasion as the national team will compete on home soil for the first time since 2006. Their opening match will be against the Philippines at Perth Stadium, starting at 17:00 AWST (20:00 AEDT).
A squad featuring prominent players such as captain Sam Kerr, vice-captains Ellie Carpenter and Steph Catley, along with Katrina Gorry, Mary Fowler, Caitlin Foord, and Hayley Raso, aims to secure the championship. Gorry expressed excitement about the growth of women’s football, stating, “It’s been such a privilege to watch the growth in women’s football since the last tournament. Hosting this event is going to be incredible.”
Home Advantage and Tournament Structure
The tournament will see matches held across three locations: Perth, Sydney, and the Gold Coast. The Matildas will also face Iran and South Korea in their group matches, alongside teams like Bangladesh, China, and Japan. Gorry highlighted the high-caliber competition they will encounter, saying, “The calibre of teams in this tournament is top tier. It’s going to push us hard.”
The format of the tournament involves 12 teams divided into three groups of four. The top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed teams, will progress to the quarterfinals, leading to the semifinals and the final. The opening match will take place in Perth, while the final will be hosted at Stadium Australia in Sydney.
Upcoming Matches and Broadcast Information
The Matildas’ schedule is as follows:
– **March 1:** Australia vs. Philippines, Perth Stadium, 17:00 AWST (20:00 AEDT)
– **March 5:** Australia vs. Iran, Gold Coast Stadium, 20:00 AEDT
– **March 8:** Australia vs. South Korea, Stadium Australia, Sydney, 20:00 AEDT
Tickets remain available for the matches in Sydney and the Gold Coast. Fans can watch all Matildas games live on Network 10, with additional streaming options available on Paramount+.
As the Matildas prepare for this prestigious tournament, the excitement is palpable among their supporters. The opportunity to represent Australia at home adds a unique dimension to their quest for the Asian Cup trophy. Gorry summed up the sentiment shared by the team: “A tournament at home is always exciting… We love a challenge. We’re up for it.”
