Focus on Australia and New Zealand as Co-Hosts Launch Women's World Cup

 

The ninth edition of the Women's World Cup, the largest in the tournament's history, commences on Thursday with co-hosts New Zealand and Australia taking the field. Both matches are expected to draw record attendances.

Since its inception as a 12-team event in 1991, the Women's World Cup has steadily grown and now includes 32 teams, matching the format of the men's tournament. This edition also marks the first time that two countries have co-hosted the quadrennial event, as it makes its debut in the southern hemisphere.

New Zealand starts the tournament in Auckland against former champions Norway, while Australia hosts Ireland. Both matches are set to attract a total of more than 100,000 fans.

FIFA Chief Women's Football Officer, Sarai Bareman, expressed her anticipation that this Women's World Cup will be a pivotal moment for global women's sports.

In the previous 2015 edition held in Canada, the stadiums saw a record 1.3 million-plus fans in attendance. The 2023 tournament is expected to surpass this mark, with nearly 1.4 million tickets already sold.

All eyes are on New Zealand, not only as co-hosts but also because they have never won a match in the World Cup during their five prior appearances. Facing Norway, who boast a Ballon d'Or winner in Ada Hegerberg, presents a significant challenge.

Australia's team will be led by Sam Kerr, a top contender for the Golden Boot, and a revered figure in the sport. She made history by becoming the first woman featured on the global cover of the immensely popular video game FIFA 23. Australian fans hope to witness her signature cartwheel-backflip goal celebration on the home soil stage.

In conclusion, the 2023 Women's World Cup is expected to be a milestone event for women's sports worldwide, with enthusiastic support from fans and high-profile players taking center stage.