Australian Women’s Soccer Team the Matildas Are on the Brink of Making History
For as long as the team has existed, the Matildas have stood up against sexist discrimination and exploitation. Now they’re within striking distance of the Women’s World Cup.
Australian players celebrate their victory in the penalty shoot during the FIFA Women’s World Cup quarterfinal match between Australia and France at Brisbane Stadium on August 12, 2023 in Brisbane, Australia. (Elsa – FIFA / FIFA via Getty Images)
In late July, the FIFA Women’s World Cup kicked off as Australia’s team, the Matildas, faced off against Ireland. In the days leading up to the match, there were only hints in Sydney’s central business district that a major international sporting event was about to take place. The media had barely promoted the competition, and as one commentator described it, there was “barely a lick of excitement in the air.” It was emblematic of the neglect of women’s sports.
Just three weeks later, the Matildas have transformed Australia’s sports landscape sensationally with their August 12 quarterfinal win against France.
Now, on the eve of the Matildas’ August 16 semifinal against England, there’s an electricity in the air that can only be generated by an international football tournament. Thanks to scintillating performances from the likes of Mary Fowler, Hayley Raso, and Mackenzie Arnold, women’s football has rocketed from the periphery to the center.
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