Football Federation Australia (FFA) today announced the Westfield Matildas will play three matches against reigning Olympic bronze medallists Canada.
The Matildas will travel to Vancouver, British Columbia, for the first game, to be played on Tuesday, 14 April, 2020 (Wednesday, 15 April AEST), at BC Place.
The Canada women’s national team will then head to Australia next year for two matches to be hosted before the end of November, 2021.
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FFA Chief Executive James Johnson said he’s thrilled that agreement with Canada Soccer has been reached, “FFA is delighted to have secured these three matches against such a strong and formidable opponent.
“Canada is currently ranked eighth in the world, and with the Westfield Matildas seventh, we can look forward to three great games.
“The last time we played Canada here in Australia was back in 2008 at Sydney Football Stadium, so I’m sure Australian football fans are looking forward to their return.
He added “Canada hosted a very successful FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2015, and I know many of our Matildas will relish the thought of heading back to Canada, and to playing in a superb stadium that hosted a classic final between USA and Japan.”
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Westfield Matildas Head Coach Ante Milicic said he sees great value in playing Canada in Vancouver, “The game in April will be an important test for the team, and form a crucial part of our preparations for the Tokyo Olympic Games, should we get through the forthcoming qualification process.
“Canada is a real powerhouse in the women’s game. After defeating Australia in our opening match of the 2016 Rio Olympics, they went on to claim their second straight bronze medal.
He added “The quality of the Canadian team should not be under-estimated, it will be a fiercely-fought series of matches and fans can look forward to two good match-ups here in Australia next year.”
Venues, dates and broadcast details for next year’s games in Australia to be confirmed in due course.
2020 Women’s International Friendly
Canada v Westfield Matildas
Date: Tuesday, 14 April 2020 (Wednesday, 15 April AEST),
Venue: BC Place, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Kick-off: 7:30pm (local); 12:30pm (AEST, Wednesday)
Ticketing & broadcast information to be advised.
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