The CommBank Matildas assembled in Melbourne today to commence the final phase of their FIFA Women’s World Cup preparations.
Australia’s full 23-player squad will take part in this week’s activities that will culminate in a highly anticipated clash with world number five, France, this Friday 14 July at Marvel Stadium.
Fresh off a move to Real Madrid over the weekend, Hayley Raso talked before the teams' training session in Melbourne.
"It's nice to be back in amongst the girls preparing for the tournament, which is 10 days away now. (There is) a real buzz around the camp and (we are) just very excited." Raso said.
Australia's opening game of the tournament, just 10 days away on the 20th of July, will see the Matildas open their campaign against FIFA Women's World Cup debutants the Republic of Ireland.
The team will play one final international fixture before kicking off the tournament next week, hosting world number five, France, in front of a bumper crowd at Marvel Stadium.
"We're all really looking forward to the game against France. It'll be a really good test for us, we're feeling very ready and prepared for the World Cup."
"It's important for us to to get a game in before that to make sure we're firing and ready to go." Raso continued.
The game against the Republic of Ireland in Sydney in just 10 days time is set to see almost 80,000 fans pack into Stadium Australia to watch the Matildas' opening game of the tournament.
"It's already come around that quick. Once this game against France is done, we'll be all focused on the World Cup and we can't wait"
Fed Square Final Squad Presentation
Date: Tuesday, 11 July 2023
Venue: Federation Square
Time: Activities from 2:00 pm. Squad Presentation from 4:00 pm – 4.45 pm AEST
CommBank Matildas v France
Date: Friday, 14 July 2023
Venue: Marvel Stadium, Melbourne
Kick-Off: 7:30 pm AEST
Broadcast: 10 Bold, 10 Play and Paramount+
Tickets: Buy Tickets Now!
