Australia’s beloved women’s soccer team the Matildas are currently battling it out in stage two of qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
As one of the five highest-ranked teams in Asia, Australia — alongside Japan, China, South Korea, and North Korea — received a pass through to the second round.
There are seven nations in the second round and they’ve been placed in three groups.
Australia is in Group A alongside Iran, the Philippines and Chinese Taipei.
Here’s what you need to know about the Matildas’ first Olympic qualifying schedule.
When do the Matildas play next?
Their next game is today at 6:10pm AEDT when they take on the Philippines at Perth Stadium.
On Wednesday, November 1, at 10pm AEDT, they are up against Chinese Taipei at Perth Rectangular Stadium.
Where can I watch the Matildas game tonight?
If you’re in Australia you can catch all the action live on Channel 10. The match will also be simulcast on the 10 Play app and Paramount+.
If you’re in a country that doesn’t have a designated rights holder, you can watch the match live on the Football Australia Youtube Channel.
Will Sam Kerr be playing tonight?
We might see Kerr on the pitch tonight, but don’t expect the Australian captain to be on field all game.
Speaking before Australia’s match against Iran on Wednesday, Australia coach Tony Gustavsson says he will be careful not to overload the star striker.
“I think all of us would love to play Sam Kerr in 90 minutes every game,” he said.
“Considering she’s coming back from injury very recently, she hasn’t played 90 minutes in a very long time. Not for club either, with that calf issue.
“We need to be extremely mindful. As I did in the World Cup, I’m going to go by recommendation with my (medical) team.”
Kerr recently revealed that she suffered two calf injuries during the World Cup earlier in the year.
But she also said that she was keen to see some field time playing in her home town for the first time in five years.
“It feels good, it’s exciting, I love being back in Perth,” she said.
“I’ve been nagging everyone to get some Perth games, so I’m glad it’s finally happened.
What happens if the Matildas win tonight’s game?
The Matildas are currently in round two of the Asian qualifiers for the 2024 Paris Olympic games.
They’ve already notched one win, beating Iran 2-0 earlier in the week.
Currently, Australia and Philippines are tied at the top of the group with one win each, with the Matildas trailing on goal difference.
If they win or draw their games against Philippines and Chinese Taipei they are well placed to reach the third and final round of qualifying (the three group winners and the best-placed runner-up progress).
The final qualifying round will take place from February 24 to 28 next year, with the four winning teams battling it out for the two Olympic spots allocated to the Asia qualifying groups.
ABC/Reuters