The Matilda’s can significantly improve their chances of success at next years World Cup in the coming days, when they host Chile in two friendly clashes, starting in Penrith on Saturday afternoon.
Two victories will see them ensure they will be seeded in the top six sides in France, meaning they will likely avoid strong opponents in the early stages.
Cheryl Downes, Editor at ‘The Women’s Game’, this week told Box2Box she expects Alen Stajcic’s side to account for the Chileans.
“I think (Chile) have got some nice technical skills, I think they’re good on the ball, but I think defensively they’re not at strong. I think very much Australia should have the game looked after, but you can never put it in the bank”.
With neither Kyah Simon or Steph Catley in the squad, and The Netherlands waiting to poach a coveted top-six place should Australia slip up, these are certainly more than just friendlies for The Matildas.
Couple this with the recent launch of the Oz2023 World Cup bid, and Downes believes there is no more important time to support the side than now.
“I think its huge for them, it’s really important to actually participate in uplifting football in Australia. Coming up to the 0z2023 bid the more we can demonstrate that we can be a football nation, with plenty of people coming out to watch, (the better). That’s the kind of vibe we need.”