New rival added to Matildas’ preparations ahead of FIFA Women’s World Cup

The Matildas have a busy April ahead of them after confirmation of a second match against UK opposition.

The Matildas’ preparations for this year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup have been further boosted by confirmation of a friendly against Scotland in London on April 7.

The match will take place less than a week before Australia’s meeting with England, also in London.

“For preparation purposes, it was important to have secured a team with the quality and character of Scotland,” Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson said.

Despite the Scots having failed to qualify for the World Cup, Gustavsson predicted a tough encounter for his side.

The Matildas will meet Scotland and England next month. Picture: Saeed Khan / AFP

“Scotland is a well-organised and physical team with some world-class individual players, including Caroline Weir and Erin Cuthbert, whom our players know what they are capable of from playing with them in club land,” he said.

“We are looking forward to having another match in a city that is for many of our players a home away from home.”

The Australians will take a seven-game winning streak into the game against Scotland, but Gustavsson said there was room for improvement.

“The recent Cup of Nations tournament was another positive step forward, with the team ticking off many objectives, but it also highlighted areas that we need to continue improving,” he said.

The Matildas’ World Cup preparations will also include a game against France at Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium on July 14.

Matildas v Scotland
April 7, 10.15pm (AEST)

Cherry Red Records Stadium, London

England v Matildas

April 12, 4.45am (AEST)

Brentford Community Stadium, London