World Cup Goal in Sight
On the day Adelaide will play host to the Westfield Matildas for the first time in 13 years, the Marshall Liberal Government has confirmed it will be part of Australia’s bid to secure the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Premier Marshall said that the State Government is ready and excited to assist in bringing the 2023 Women’s World Cup to Australia.
“The FIFA Women’s World Cup is a massive event to add to our sporting calendar, and Adelaide will be a fantastic location for the competition,” said Premier Steven Marshall.
“The Matildas are a shining example of Australian sporting prowess and hosting the World Cup will allow them to showcase their skills on the biggest stage in their own backyard.”
Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, David Ridgway said the State Government has negotiated a good outcome for South Australian sports fans and taxpayers.
“I’m thrilled to announce South Australia’s commitment to the World Cup bid on the same day the Matildas are playing at Coopers Stadium,” said Minister Ridgway.
“It’s a proud moment for South Australia to host the team which is currently ranked 8th in the world in an international friendly with Chile.
“This is a group of inspiring young women who are fabulous role models for girls’ right across the country.
“I’m confident the Matildas will put on a great show, led by Captain Sam Kerr, against world cup team Chile.
“It’s great to see three South Australians named in the squad tonight, including Adelaide United goalkeeper, Sarah Willacy, as well as Emma Checker and Jenna McCormick."
South Australia’s commitment to the FIFA Women’s World Cup bid and the Matilda’s game tonight highlights the State’s investment in major events, international sport and importantly women’s sport.
“We are heading into an action-packed summer of sport with a host of international and national events in South Australia, many of them featuring the world’s best female athletes.
“We start this month with the Mitsubishi Motors Australian International 3 Day Event, we have the Adelaide International tennis event, the Santos Women’s Tour Down Under, the ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open golf and the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup teams arriving in February for their warm-up matches.
“South Australia’s visitor economy is at a record $7.6 billion and it is world class events such as these that will continue to drive this positive growth,” Mr Ridgway said.
Note: The Matildas versus Chile game at Coopers Stadium kicks off at 7.30pm ACDT tonight. Tickets for the match are available on matildas.com.au/tickets