Call the girls to come over ‘cos the game is on! I’m talking about the return of the Matildas squad and their journey to the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics.
After their stellar, terrific, marvellous, fantastic run at the FIFA Women’s World Cup earlier this year, the Tillies have returned home to fight for Australia’s place in the upcoming Olympic Games.
The absolute guns are set to take on Iran, the Philippines (GO THE PHILIPPINES), and Chinese Taipei for round two of the Asian Olympic Qualifiers.
With everyone catching football fever from the Women’s World Cup, the nation is now standing strong behind the girls for these upcoming matches. As the famous hashtag goes: #Tillsitsdone.
The Matildas will embark on their first qualifying match on Thursday, October 26, against Iran.
Here’s how you can watch match one of the Asian Olympic Qualifiers to tame that football fever:
In-person
Unfortunately, unlike the World Cup which took place across Australia, all the Olympic Qualifying matches will be played in the beautiful state of Western Australia—specifically, the city of Perth.
And if you haven’t copped tickets earlier, you’re definitely up shits creek. On Wednesday, it was officially announced that all tickets had been sold out for all three games.
Although it is kinda sad that some people have to miss out on seeing the Tillies live, you have to appreciate their massive impact on Women’s sports. It’s absolutely spectacular what they’ve done to elevate the beautiful game.
Another impressive thing to note is that in September, the Matildas vs Philippines game was moved from HBF Park to Optus Stadium due to ticket demands. In my opinion, it should’ve been moved to Sydney…
On telly and streaming
According to the official Matildas site, Aussies can catch the action for free through Channel 10, or 10 Bold if you’re from Western Australia, Queensland or The Northern Territory.
You can also watch the match on the 10 Play app or on Paramount+.
If you’re an international fan, you can watch it for free on YouTube through the broadcast below.
Kick-off time for match one, as listed by the Matildas website, will be 7pm for Australian Western Standard Time (AWST) and 10pm Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT).
Ugh, their impact. I’m just so amazed and proud to be watching history unfold for women’s sports, specifically football.
Up the Tillies!
However, the Philippines match is truly going to feel like a Team Edward or Team Jacob moment. Keen and scared.
Image source: Getty Images / Bradley Kanaris
