While the excitement of the FIFA Women's World Cup may have (slightly) faded, we're still on the Tilles train. After a thrilling World Cup campaign, the powerhouse team is back competing to gain a spot at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Excitingly, Football Australia has announced that the Matildas will play their next match in Melbourne, as part of the Asian Olympic Qualifiers. Sadly, the legendary Sam Kerr won't be on the field, after it was revealed she recently suffered a serious knee injury while training. But so many other fantastic players will be playing, so here's everything you need to know to get behind our gals.
Who are the Matildas playing against in the Olympic qualifiers?
For round three of the Asian Qualifiers, the Matildas will play two matches against Uzbekistan, in what's called a two-legged tie. The stakes are high, as the winner of these two matches (whoever scores the most goals overall) will officially gain a place as one of two teams representing the Asia-Pacific region in the Paris Women's Olympic Football Tournament. Australia has done well in the qualifiers so far, beating Chinese Taipei 3-0, the Phillippines 8-0 and Iran 2-0. So fingers crossed that their reign continues!
Where are the Matildas playing in the Olympic qualifiers?
In the round two group of Australia, Chinese Taipei, Philippines and Iran, Australia scored the home-ground advantage. So far, the previous three matches have been at HBF Park in Perth and Optus Stadium in Sydney. For round three, the first match will be played in Uzbekistan, before the tournament returns Down Under to Marvel Stadium in Melbourne for the second match.
When do the Matildas play in the Olympic qualifiers in Melbourne?
The big match to determine their Olympic spot will be taking place on February 28, 2024, right here in Melbourne at Marvel Stadium. The previous match will be on February 24, played in Uzbekistan.
How can I watch the Matildas play in the Olympic Qualifiers?
If you're an eager Matildas fan, you've probably already secured your ticket to see them play at Marvel Stadium in February. There are very limited tickets left on sale through Ticketmaster. Otherwise, you can catch the match on Paramount+, or it'll most likely be aired live on Channel 10 (who have been airing all their previous matches, but haven't confirmed their programming for late February yet). Or, if you're looking for some crowd atmosphere, one of the city's many sporting bars and pubs will surely be showing the match onscreen.
What are the Matildas game times?
Saturday, February 24: Live from 7pm AEDT on 10 and Paramount+
Wednesday, February 28: Live from 7.30pm AEDT on 10 and Paramount+