"I think we are already there," Matildas coach Alen Stajcic said

However, there is only way to climb the rankings.

“It’s simple we have to win games,” Stajcic said.

The next 11 months are crucial for Stajcic and the side as the lead to the World Cup next June so everything they do now is preparation for that.

Players will be fighting for starting spots but there are also things the team is looking to improve on during this period “whether that be finishing in the final third, defending, creating opportunities” Stajcic has said.

There will be no added pressure to try to defend their title though.

“We already put pressure on ourselves to perform," said Stajcic.

The ToN gives the Matildas the opportunity to play against the top nations in the world with Japan (6), Brazil (7) and USA (1) all ranked above Australia in the current FIFA rankings. 

They also will face Japan for the first time since their Asian Cup Final loss to them in April, which could be an added fire to get one over them with the side including 18-players from that squad. 

Stajcic has selected a mixture of players including Lisa De Vanna (South Melbourne), Amy Sayer (North Shore Mariners), Mary Fowler (Bankstown City) Chloe Logarzo (Blacktown Spartans) and Emily Gielnik (Redlands United) who are playing at home in Australia.

However, they haven't just been confined to playing the NPL Women's competitions in their respective states but have been flying into Sydney to play with or against the Future Matildas on Wednesday nights for some added competition and squad integration.