Matildas’ Stunning Victory Sets Attendance Record at Optus Stadium

Sellout Crowd for Matildas‘ Olympic Qualifier at Optus Stadium

The upcoming Olympic qualifier match between the Matildas and the Philippines has been declared a sellout, with all general public tickets for the match at Optus Stadium in Perth now sold. This marks the 11th consecutive sellout for the Matildas, a streak that began before the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Increased Demand and Venue Change

The decision to move the match to Optus Stadium was made by the Cook Labor Government in response to the overwhelming demand from the public. Following their impressive performance in the World Cup and three sellout matches at HBF Park, the government wanted to give thousands more Western Australians the opportunity to see the Matildas play on home soil.

The match against the Philippines is part of a double header, with IR Iran taking on Chinese Taipei afterwards. The Sunday at Optus Stadium is expected to be a thrilling day of football.

First Time in Perth, First Opportunity Since World Cup

This match is significant as it marks the first time in five years that the Matildas will be playing in Perth. Additionally, it is the first opportunity for Australian fans to watch the Matildas compete in their home country after their successful run in the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023.

Government and Tourism Support

The Cook Government, in partnership with Football Australia and supported by VenuesWest, has orchestrated this series of matches to bring the Matildas to Perth. Premier Roger Cook expressed his pride in delivering these exclusive matches to Western Australian fans and visitors.

Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti also emphasized the impact of the Matildas‘ matches on tourism and the local economy. The additional 40,000 tickets sold for the Sunday match at Optus Stadium provide a boost to the tourism and hospitality sectors in Western Australia.

Feedback from Government Officials

Premier Roger Cook remarked, “There’s no better way to welcome the Matildas to Perth than with three incredible sell-out crowds. Matildas and football mania have arrived, and I, along with tens of thousands of fans, can’t wait to revel in this blockbuster week of women’s football right here in Western Australia.”

Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti expressed her excitement for the reception the Matildas will receive and the support they will have in their bid to qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Sport and Recreation Minister David Templeman hailed the success of bringing the Matildas to Perth and the massive demand for tickets. He looks forward to the Matildas‘ return to global football after their stellar World Cup campaign.

Football Australia’s Perspective

Football Australia CEO James Johnson acknowledged the overwhelming support for the Matildas in Perth. He emphasized the importance of the team to the Australian sports community and expressed optimism about the future of women’s football in the country.

Conclusion

The sellout crowd for the Matildas‘ Olympic qualifier at Optus Stadium is a testament to the growing popularity and success of women’s football in Australia. The Cook Labor Government’s decision to move the match to a larger venue demonstrates their commitment to providing access to sporting events for as many fans as possible.

The Matildas‘ return to Perth after five years and their first appearance in Australia since the World Cup is a cause for celebration. It’s a chance for fans to support the team and witness their skills on home soil, while also boosting the local economy through increased tourism and hospitality activity.

This sellout match serves as a reminder of the power of sport in bringing communities together and inspiring new generations. The success of the Matildas showcases the potential for women’s football to continue to thrive and grow in Australia, and the ongoing support from fans will undoubtedly fuel this momentum.