Australia will kick off their first tournament of 2018 at the annual Algarve Cup in Portugal, as they gear up to prepare for three important years ahead.
The Matildas, highest-ranked nation in the event, will be facing world no.14 Norway in their first match.
LAST TIME THEY MET
Both teams have previously played each other five times (1W3L1D). The most recent meeting was at the group stages of 2011 World Cup where Australia clinched the win (2-1).
NORWAY
Norway participated in the Algarve Cup last year, but it served as a testing period for their newly-hired coach, Martin Sjögren.
They finished in 11th place out of 12 teams.
It has been a rebuilding year for the Scandinavians, especially after their disappointing run at the EURO 2017 and losing key players like Ada Hegerberg.
The new year saw Norway achieve small successes, winning friendlies against Scotland (3-0) and Iceland (2-1) last month.
AUSTRALIA
Australia, on the other hand, will be looking to build on their fantastic form from last year and extend their winning streak.
Most of the squad have just come off strong league seasons, and this will be their first game together since the China friendlies in November.
There will be key players missing, with the likes of Kyah Simon, Caitlin Foord, Emily Gielnik and Amy Harrison out due to injuries.
The depth of the Matildas squad will be tested again, but it also means more players will get the opportunity to gain precious game time.
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