Football Australia is under pressure to maintain interest in the Socceroos and Matildas, but luring elite opposition for home friendlies is proving 'bloody difficult', according to executive director Heather Garriock.
Garriock stated that bringing top-quality teams to Australia costs significant money, yet it is crucial for investing in the national brands and satisfying fans. The Matildas have only the 2032 Brisbane Olympics as a foreseeable major home tournament, while the Socceroos' World Cup aspirations dimmed after withdrawing the 2034 bid.
The expansion of the World Cup to 48 teams has reduced qualification jeopardy, and although crowds for recent qualifiers were strong—57,000 in Perth and 46,000 in Adelaide—sellouts are no longer guaranteed. The Fifa Series concept has not provided a reliable solution.
Matildas coach Joe Montemurro expressed a desire for more elite opposition after the Asian Cup final loss, but FA announced a trip to Kenya for matches against Malawi and potentially India, sparking frustration. Garriock promised fans top-ten quality matches for the Matildas within the next six to twelve months.
