The draw for the FIFA Women’s World Cup Canada 2015 is just days away and there is a mixture of excitement and occasion as the Westfield Matildas will soon learn who we will face in pursuit of World Cup Glory.
The draw is a significant date in the countdown to the World Cup as the 24 competing nations face off in Ottawa, less than six months before the first ball is kicked on June 6.
The euphoria of qualifying has slowly faded into the distance as players concentrate on staying fit and in form in the hope of representing Australia on the biggest stage in world football – the World Cup.
The draw allows players a respite from the day-to-day drive towards final selection as they sit back and dream of what might be. Who will we draw? Can we progress deep into the tournament?
From a coaches perspective the draw is also an important junction in the preparations.
Up until now the focus has been on watching matches, plenty of them, to get an idea of who will be the lucky ones to go to the World Cup, as well as creating a roadmap to give the players every chance of success.
The draw solidifies the challenge and allows us to start preparing for who will stand in our way as we strive to play deep into the tournament.
Whoever we draw, the Westfield Matildas will travel to the World Cup determined to take the opportunity put in front of us.
There’s no easy draw. There’s no preferred opponent.
This is the World Cup. The best of the best. And just as the Socceroos took on Spain, Chile and the Netherlands in the men’s World Cup we are looking to embrace whatever challenge is thrown our way.
It’s our mission to make sure we represent Australia with pride and passion and show the world what we are capable of – no matter who we play!
The draw will take place in Ottawa, Canada, starting at 4am (AEDT) on Sunday morning.