FIFA is considering moving next year's Women's World Cup opener to Stadium Australia, which seats 83,500.
Ireland is currently set to open the tournament by playing hosts Australia in Sydney Football Stadium, which seats 42,500, but after the first batch of tickets quickly sold out FIFA has stated that they are considering the move in order to increase the tickets available. As FIFA president Gianni Infantino supports the switch, a confirmation is likely within a few weeks.
Independent.ie quotes a FIFA spokesperson as saying "An assessment of the request is being conducted, and FIFA will share its decision in due course. FIFA is committed to delivering the biggest and best Women's World Cup in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand this year."
It was announced on Jan. 16th that over half a million Women's World Cup tickets have been sold, and the Republic of Ireland is among the top ten countries purchasing the most tickets. Excitement is high as this is the first World Cup Ireland's WNT has qualified for, and with the significant Irish diaspora already in Australia and the popularity of Australia's own Matildas, the opening match is one of the most sought-after.
Stadium Australia, built to host the 2000 Summer Olympics, is 20km out of Sydney city centre.
The Matildas are currently ranked 12th in the world. Vera Pauw's side, ranked 23rd, will also face Canada in Perth and Nigeria in Brisbane in the group stages.
