It's nearly crunch time as the Matildas stake their claim to compete at this year's Olympics. And it's happening in our own backyard.
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Football Federation Australia announced on Monday the 2020 AFC Women's Olympic Qualification Tournament Group B will be held in Sydney next month.
The decision was made by the Asian Football Confederation following the outbreak of the Coronavirus in Wuhan, which was set to host the Tokyo 2020 qualifiers.
Matildas forward Caitlin Foord said it was unfortunate circumstances but "an awesome outcome for us".
"To play any game on home soil is exciting, especially such games like these qualifiers," the Shellharbour product, 25, said.
"There's a good vibe around the team. Our preparation has been going really well. Obviously we'd been preparing like we would go to China, but the prep doesn't really change now we're playing in Australia.
"I think not only for me, but for everyone, to be able to play in front of our friends and family in the green and gold doesn't happen too often. So to have an extra few games here makes it even more special."
To be able to play in front of our friends and family in the green and gold doesn't happen too often.
- Caitlin Foord
Joshua Bartlett
A sporting fanatic who is keen to promote all codes in the Illawarra and abroad. Mercury's chief football reporter.
A sporting fanatic who is keen to promote all codes in the Illawarra and abroad. Mercury's chief football reporter.
