The Andrews Labor Government is delivering another blockbuster international sporting match to Victoria, attracting more visitors to the state while giving fans the chance to get behind the Matildas in the lead up to the World Cup. Fans will get the chance to rally behind Australia’s national women’s football team in the lead up to the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023, when the Matildas play Sweden on November 12 at Melbourne’s AAMI Park. “We’re delivering another blockbuster international match to Victorian football fans, giving them the chance to cheer on the Matildas as they rocket toward a win in next year’s World Cup.” Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos “Upgrades to AMMI Park will ensure the iconic stadium remains a world-class facility, delivering a better experience for fans and players ahead of hosting six games for the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023.”
“As a host city and stadium for the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023™, it is a fantastic opportunity for Victorians to get a taste of what they can expect from the tournament next year and Sweden to experience the warmth and hospitality of Melbourne.” Football Australia CEO James Johnson commented.
Mr. Johnson said that with the Matildas reaching the semi-finals at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics and Sweden winning the silver medal, the November clash is set to attract a capacity crowd and will mark the Matildas first game in Victoria for nearly four years. Minister Dimopoulos explained that the match is a boost to an already outstanding events calendar and comes off the success of a sold-out Socceroos vs Vietnam game in January this year, also supported by the Labor Government.
The Minister explained that hosting this event reinforces Victoria’s standing as a major events destination and underscores the Labor Government’s commitment to women’s football in the lead-up to the Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023. The Minister said that the Labor Government is also investing more than $25 million to further enhance AAMI Park so players and fans can relish their Women’s World Cup experience next year, with AAMI Park confirmed to host six matches. Minister Dimopoulos added that the works will deliver a range of upgrades to the existing stadium sports lights, video screens, player, corporate, spectator and broadcast facilities and include improved Wi-Fi connectivity. Works will start in November and are expected to be finished in February 2023. The FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023 will be the biggest women’s sporting event in the world next year with Victoria set to host four group matches and two round-of-16 games. The Matildas vs Sweden kicks off at 2.45pm on Saturday 12 November. Tickets go on sale on Thursday 1 September via Ticketek.