Australia is currently experiencing a wave of Matildas fever, with fans rallying behind the national women’s soccer team in a collective sporting moment that rivals the excitement of the 2000 Sydney Olympics. The support for the Matildas has been overwhelming, with fans turning out in large numbers to both games and live sites across the country. TV records have also been shattered as the nation tunes in to cheer on Australia.
The TV ratings for the quarterfinal match, which turned out to be the longest shootout in FIFA World Cup history, have yet to be released. However, the ratings for previous games have been steadily climbing, with over 3.5 million viewers tuning in to watch the Matildas’ round of 16 win over Denmark on Channel 7. This number alone surpasses the ratings of every NRL Grand Final and State of Origin since 2016, as well as five of the past seven AFL Grand Finals. Additionally, many football fans have been watching via Optus Sport, and thousands have gathered at live sites to support the team.
Despite the overwhelming support, there always seems to be one person who doesn’t join in on the collective moment. Popular broadcaster Jacqui Felgate shared a video from a flight showing almost everyone engrossed in the tense shootout, except for one person who was watching “Lord of the Rings.” It’s hard to fathom why someone wouldn’t want to be part of this national celebration, regardless of their interest in sports.
The excitement surrounding the Matildas’ journey in the World Cup has been palpable across the country. Fans at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) went to great lengths to find TVs to watch the shootout after the big screens were turned off at the end of regulation time. Even the Channel 7 AFL commentators, who were covering another game, couldn’t resist watching the thrilling match. AFL Media’s Michael Whiting captured a photo of Adelaide Crows and Brisbane Lions coaches huddled around a phone, delaying their press conferences to witness the final stages of the game.
Videos of fans celebrating the Matildas’ victory over France flooded social media, showcasing the wild scenes from coast to coast. From Adelaide to Sydney, supporters went absolutely crazy as the team secured a spot in the semi-finals for the first time in history. The upcoming match against England is expected to generate even more chaos, as the Matildas face the fourth-ranked team in the world. While France bowed out in the quarterfinals, England has reached the semi-finals in the past two World Cups, finishing third in 2015 and fourth in 2019.
This is the furthest the Matildas have ever advanced in a World Cup, and the nation is eagerly anticipating their next match. Perhaps if the team makes it to the final, even the person watching “Lord of the Rings” will join in the country’s celebration and turn off “Return of the King.”
How have public viewings in parks and open spaces contributed to the united atmosphere and national unity during the Matildas’ FIFA Women’s World Cup journey?
Public viewings in parks and open spaces to support the team.
The surge in support for the Matildas is reminiscent of the nation’s passion during the 2000 Sydney Olympics, where the whole country rallied behind its athletes. This collective enthusiasm for women’s soccer is truly remarkable, as fans from all walks of life unite to show their unwavering support.
The overwhelming response from fans can be seen not only in the impressive TV ratings but also in the large turnout at games and live sites across Australia. The atmosphere in stadiums has been electric, with fans proudly donning the green and gold, waving flags, and chanting in unison. It is clear that the Matildas have captured the hearts of the nation.
The quarterfinal match, which witnessed the longest shootout in FIFA World Cup history, is expected to have attracted an even larger audience. The nail-biting contest created a sense of suspense and anticipation, leaving football enthusiasts on the edge of their seats. Although the TV ratings for this match have yet to be released, previous games have been earning consistently high viewership. For instance, the round of 16 victory over Denmark drew in more than 3.5 million viewers on Channel 7 alone. This astounding number surpasses the ratings of some of the most significant NRL and AFL matches in recent years.
The popularity of the Matildas has extended beyond traditional TV audiences, as numerous football fans have opted to stream the matches through Optus Sport. The streaming platform has allowed supporters to watch the games from the comfort of their own homes and has garnered a substantial viewership. Moreover, the team’s success has also encouraged large crowds to gather at public viewings in parks and open spaces, creating a festive and united atmosphere.
Australia’s support for the Matildas is a testament to the growing recognition and appreciation of women’s sports in the country. The team’s inspiring performances have captivated the nation, highlighting the immense talent and determination of these athletes. As the Matildas continue their journey in the FIFA Women’s World Cup, the wave of Matildas fever will undoubtedly intensify, with fans eagerly cheering on the team and hoping for further success.
In this display of national unity and support, the Matildas have become the source of pride and inspiration for a nation that truly believes in their abilities. The wave of Matildas fever is sweeping across Australia, unifying sports fans and capturing the imagination of the entire country.
So awesome to see the growing support for women’s football in Australia! The Matildas are truly inspiring. 馃敟馃嚘馃嚭 #girlpower