Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson says Australia’s Cup of Nations opponents have been “carefully selected” as he makes an attempt to “mirror” what his facet can count on throughout this yr’s FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The Matildas will meet Spain, the Czech Republic and Jamaica subsequent month in a six-match match to be held solely in NSW.
Teams will play towards one another as soon as in a round-robin format, with the highest-placed facet to be topped Cup of Nations champions.
“Spain, Czechia (Czech Republic) and Jamaica have been carefully selected for the Cup of Nations to ensure we have the right preparation heading into the FIFA Women’s World Cup,” Gustavsson stated.
“Not only are all three nations filled with quality, but they also provide a difference in playing style and approach, with the three match days aiming to mirror tournament group play to the best of our ability.
“As a team, we love playing at home and the Cup of Nations will provide that opportunity to fully experience the ‘12th player’ support from Australia.”
Tournament matches might be performed in Sydney, Gosford and Newcastle.
Football Australia chief govt officer James Johnson stated: “The Cup of Nations will continue to take football to regional areas with the Central Coast, Greater Sydney, and the Hunter presented an opportunity to farewell the Matildas ahead of July’s (Women’s World Cup) as well as get a taste for the international football festival that awaits in 2023.”
Of the 4 nations competing, solely the Czech Republic is not going to participate within the Women’s World Cup, having didn’t qualify.
“Three of the four sides will be aiming for success at the FIFA Women’s World Cup, and we expect the quality of the six matches to be world-class.” Johnson stated.
Cup of Nations schedule:
Thursday, February 16, Industree Group Stadium, Gosford: Spain v Jamaica, 4.10pm (AEDT); Australia v Czech Republic 7.10pm (AEDT).
Sunday, February 19, CommBank Stadium, Sydney: Jamaica v Czech Republic, 2.50pm (AEDT); Australia v Spain, 6pm (AEDT).
Wednesday, February 22, McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle: Czech Republic v Spain, 2pm (AEDT); Australia v Jamaica 7.10pm (AEDT).
