Meaning behind Australia Women's football team nickname 'The Matildas'

807     0
Meaning behind Australia Women
Meaning behind Australia Women's football team nickname 'The Matildas'

Australia face an historic semi-final over England on Wednesday morning for a place in the Women's World Cup final against Spain on Sunday, August 20.

Australia has never been a 'football country', with cricket their big sport - but when the Matildas arrived on the scene - the Aussies have gone gold and green crazy. But why are the Australian Women's football team called the Matildas?

There were actually five nicknames lined up for the women's national team, before it was settled on 'Matildas' eight years ago. We take a look back at the history behind the nickname.

In 1994, the Australian Women's National Football team qualified for their first ever FIFA Women's World Cup - which was taking place in Sweden in 1995.

During the time of qualification, the team was always referred to as 'the Female Socceroos', and featured in the matchday programme for their 1994 friendly against Colombia.

Earps reacts to FIFA Best nomination and on season so far with Man Utd eiqxikziuuinvEarps reacts to FIFA Best nomination and on season so far with Man Utd

After the match, SBS (Special Broadcasting Service) joined forced with the Australian Women's Soccer Association (AWSA) and decided to run a viewer competition to find a nickname for the Women's National Team.

The shortlist included:

Following the competition, it was then decided the Australian Women's National football team would be nicknamed - The Matildas, which has been used to this day.

Australia take on England at 11am BST with coverage in our live blog.

Laura Hartley

England football team, FIFA Women's World Cup, Women's football

Read more similar news:

02.02.2023, 10:41 • Sport
Man Utd boss Skinner sends firm message to Arsenal over Russo contract saga
03.02.2023, 11:13 • Sport
Gareth Taylor makes WSL summer transfer window prediction after hectic January
03.02.2023, 14:09 • Sport
5 talking points as WSL returns after transfer drama with title race heating up
03.02.2023, 15:25 • Sport
Arsenal boss makes "very hard" transfer admission after failed Alessia Russo bid
03.02.2023, 16:17 • Sport
Emma Hayes explains Chelsea's lack of January transfers despite record sale
05.02.2023, 07:00 • Sport
Millie Bright lifts lid on "extremely tough" readjustment after Euros glory
05.02.2023, 14:33 • Sport
5 talking points as Chelsea move back to top of WSL table after Spurs thriller
05.02.2023, 20:45 • Sport
5 talking points as Arsenal lose WSL ground after derby stalemate with West Ham
06.02.2023, 10:44 • Sport
WSL talking points as Chelsea seize advantage whilst Arsenal and Man Utd misfire
06.02.2023, 13:15 • Sport
Ex-Liverpool star Konchesky honing craft as manager after historic Arsenal draw