Source : ABC NEWS
The Matildas will play four international matches in Western Australia in June and July, with three in Perth and one in the state’s South West.
Football Australia has announced the women’s national team will face Slovenia twice at Perth Rectangular Stadium on June 26 and 29, before hosting Panama at Hands Oval in Bunbury on July 5, and again at Perth Rectangular Stadium on July 8.
It is one of a number of historic events taking place at Hands Oval, which will host its first AFL home and away season match on June 8 between West Coast and North Melbourne, as part of a three-year deal for the Kangaroos to host matches at the Bunbury venue.
The ground also held an AFL pre-season clash between the Eagles and North Melbourne earlier this year in front of a sold out crowd of 7,000 people.
The announcement comes off the back of the Matildas riding a wave of popularity after their run to the semifinals of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
They have captured the attention of the nation, regularly selling out matches, and smashing TV viewer records during their World Cup campaign.
The team will play at Hands Oval in Bunbury, normally home to Australian Rules Football in WA’s South West. (ABC South West WA: Sam Tomlin)
Women’s game booming
Dunsborough Town Football Club president Tash Blefari is an advocate for women’s and girls’ soccer in the South West.
The club launched a girls-only junior competition early last year in response to a huge increase in interest.
Since 2023, the club has seen a 330 per cent increase in female participation in soccer.
Ms Blefari said the Matildas coming to Bunbury was an incredible opportunity.
“It’s a real celebration of the dedication we’ve seen in female football across the South West,” she said.
“This isn’t just about hosting a match. It’s really great for recognising the countless volunteers, the coaches, all those young girls who have poured their hearts into the game.
“To see the Matildas play right here in Bunbury, it shows them what’s possible and certainly will inspire that next generation to dream big.“
Sport Minister Rita Saffioti said confirmation of four Matildas matches in WA was exciting for soccer enthusiasts in the state.
“We know the game is growing exponentially across the nation and we’re seeing in particular more and more girls and women participate in the sport,” she said.
“That’s why we’re so passionate about having more Matildas content inspiring the next generation.”
