Laura Alleway has admitted to some nerves ahead of the Westfield Matildas' upcoming home clashes with Brazil.
Australia will play their first matches since winning the Tournament of Nations, meeting Brazil at a sold-out Pepper Stadium on Saturday and again at Newcastle's McDonald Jones Stadium next Tuesday.
BUTTERFLIES FOR ALLEWAY AHEAD OF DOUBLE-HEADER
“It's mildly nerve-wracking,” admitted Alleway after the side visited Macarthur Girls High School for some training drills with the students.
“We want to do well in every game we play in, but to do it on home soil just adds that little bit more expectation.
“We've definitely got the playing group to be successful and to do well in these games.
“Come game-day, the nerves will settle and after kick-off we'll drop into our regular routine and play our hearts out,” said Alleway.
BRINGING FOOTBALL TO THE FORE
It will be a milestone match for Alleway, with the Melbourne Victory defender set to notch her 50th cap.
And she's proud to play her part in a surge of interest in the women's game in Australia.
“The Tournament of Nations spoke for itself and the public are starting to take notice of us now,” said Alleway.
“Participation from grassroots level has just been booming.
“Football in Australia is finally coming to fruition and people are starting to realise what a beautiful game it is,” she added.
Tickets remain on sale for the match at McDonald Jones Stadium here: