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Excitement Builds as Matildas Prepare for Olympic Qualifier Against Chinese Taipei
About 25 young girls were sitting cross-legged on the grass at Perth Soccer Club on Monday afternoon, eagerly anticipating being coached by Matildas staff and filmed for the evening news. As they faced away from the stands, Football Australia’s technical director, Rae Dower, tried to maintain their attention. Suddenly, Sam Kerr, Lydia Williams, and Charli Grant crept up behind them, causing the girls to let out gasps and squeals as they realized the surprise.
The Matildas’ effect from the recent Women’s World Cup has amplified the enthusiasm, with the national team set to play their third and final Olympic qualifying match against Chinese Taipei in the Western Australian capital on Wednesday night. Only a few players in the Matildas squad, such as Charlie Rule and Amy Sayer, can still maintain any level of anonymity in public.
“We’ve had incredible support, just around the streets everyone is interested in what we’re doing and seem like big supporters.”
- Steph Catley, Matildas vice-captain
The reception for the Matildas in Perth has been overwhelming, with every player’s name adorning signs in the crowd and jerseys worn by passionate fans. The team’s vice-captain, Steph Catley, acknowledged the incredible support they have received.
As the Matildas aim to secure their spot in the Paris 2024 Olympics, the team and their supporters are eager to see them continue their success. Failure to qualify would be a huge disappointment, but if the Matildas keep winning, the momentum could continue to grow, with the possibility of hosting the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup or even playing in front of a record-breaking crowd at the MCG.
The Matildas’ journey continues, with the final Olympic qualifying match against Chinese Taipei kicking off at 7 pm local time (10 pm AEDT) on Wednesday at HBF Park in Perth.
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