Western Australian football fans lit up last week when Perth hosted Round 2 of the Paris Olympic Games Asian Qualifiers. This round included three matches where the Matildas played Iran, the Philippines, and Chinese Taipei in front of sold-out crowds across HBF Park and Optus Stadium.
The Matildas squad walked onto the pitch for Match Day one and were met with a sea of green, gold, and Mackenzie Arnold t-shirts. All three matches brought memorable moments for Tillies fans who experienced watching the Matildas live in action. Adding to this experience, the Matildas squad did not hesitate to walk around the pitch after the game, signing autographs and taking selfies.
The unique way these players interacted with fans was not exclusive to match days or events. There were also numerous random acts of kindness from players during their time in Perth, from Sam Kerr pulling over to offer an unsuspecting Tillies fan a selfie, to Hayley Raso signing autographs and taking selfies during her morning coffee run. There is something about this Australian team and the way they naturally engage with people that is truly humbling. I think Perth Tillies fans would agree, everyone left this Asian Olympic Qualifying round feeling a part of something, feeling connected, and feeling inspired.
The Matildas finished top of their group with three convincing wins. They will now play Uzbekistan over two matches at the end of February for a spot in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. After the spectacular experience for Perth Tillies fans and the continued growth of what truly is Matilda Mania, I think February will be nothing short of phenomenal.
Thank you again to the Matildas for showing Perth, Australia, and the world your brilliance on and off the pitch with your continued efforts to unite people through the love of football.
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