Fans of the world game have gathered on a chilly autumn morning in Sydney to kick off a countdown to one of the global sporting calendar’s biggest events.

The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 begins in 100 days, when fans from around the world will converge on Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Melbourne, Adelaide and cities in New Zealand for the tournament held once in every four years.

It is a significant moment for Sydney and NSW, Premier Chris Minns said at the FIFA event in Sydney on Tuesday.

“I know that the next generation of Matildas will be inspired when they see our global superstars Sam Kerr, Clare Polkinghorne and Hayley Raso among others take the field for Australia,” he told reporters.

Eleven of the cup’s 64 matches will take place in Sydney, including the opening match in Australia with the Matildas taking on Ireland on July 20, while another eight will take place in Queensland.

“I’m so delighted that we’ll be hosting games right here in Brisbane, ticket sales are going extremely well,” Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said.

“Girls and women can do anything. Now is the time for the Matildas to shine.

“We wish them all the best in their match …. and we look forward to welcoming them here back to Australia for the FIFA World Cup.”

The tournament will be the biggest ever women’s football event, Chief Operating officer FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand Jane Fernandez said.

“This is an event you simply do not want to miss out on – with tickets back on sale today, now is your chance to secure your seat and witness history in the making.”

Phoebe Loomes
(Australian Associated Press)