Australia to host China in two match series

Following on from the success of the home series against Brazil, Football Federation Australia have announced a November Matildas home series with AFC counter parts China to be held in Melbourne and Geelong.

Following on from the success of the home series against Brazil, Football Federation Australia have announced a November Matildas home series with AFC counter parts China to be held in Melbourne and Geelong.

It will be the second time in two years that Victorian fans have had the opportunity to see the Matildas live after the southern state hosted Australia and New Zealand in the lead up to the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.

FFA CEO, David Gallop, was excited to announce the matches.

"The Westfield Matildas have captured the hearts and minds of Australian girls, boys, women and men in the last week with big crowds coming out to watch them play brilliant football and show their professionalism, humility and class off the pitch,” said Gallop.

“These matches will provide Australian sports fans with two more chances to see the Westfield Matildas on home soil.

“With our bid to host the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup starting to gain momentum, this is also a great opportunity to showcase our venues and ability to host major Women’s Football matches."

The series will mark the second time Australia will meet China in 2017 after defeating the 2014 Asian Cup bronze medallists at March's Algarve Cup.

Both nations will be preparing for next year's Asian Cup which doubles as a 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup qualifier.

“The recent two matches against Brazil were extremely important for our preparation for the next year’s Asian Cup." said Stajcic.

“China is a quality opposition and we have a long history of tough matches against them. I’m sure the players are once again looking forward to running out in front of large and vocal home crowd.”

With over 15,000 and 16,000 supporters attending the Penrith and Newcastle, respectively, clashes against Brazil, the FFA will be looking to have strong sales again.

The Victorian Minister for Sport, The Hon John Eren MP, was also proud to be able to host the Westfield Matildas for these two matches against China PR.

“We’re giving more Victorians the chance to see a Matildas side that are in top form up against one of the powerhouses in Asia,” said Minister Eren.

Westfield Matildas timeline: an incredible few years

“We want to grow women’s football and create more opportunities for women in sport – bringing the Matildas to Melbourne and regional Victoria will do just that,” concluded Minister Eren.

Members of the Football Family will be able to purchase discounted tickets for both matches from 12pm (AEST), Friday 22 September with General Public On-Sale from 12pm (AEST) Tuesday 26 September.

Tickets for both matches are available for purchase from the Mqtildas website.

FOX SPORTS will broadcast both matches live.