In Australian soccer, the revelation that Victoria opted not to pitch to host Matildas matches for the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup has sparked a whirlwind of debate. While New South Wales, Queensland, and Western Australia gear up to welcome the tournament with open arms, Victoria’s absence from the bidding fray has raised eyebrows and ignited discussions nationwide.
So, what led to Victoria’s decision to step back? Despite its reputation as “the home of the Matildas,” the Victorian government opted not to make a pitch, pointing to a busy calendar packed with significant events and prior commitments. With major attractions like the Australian Open and the Boxing Day Test already capturing attention, some speculate whether Victoria had its hands full and needed more time to make room for the goal of hosting Matildas matches.
A missed opportunity or a strategic move?
Former Matildas captain and goalkeeper Melissa Barbieri expresses her disappointment, emphasising the importance of backing women’s sport and investing in its success. After all, who wouldn’t want to see the Matildas up close and personal in their home state?
“It is disappointing because as a die-hard Victorian you love to see the Matildas up close and personal. It would have been a great investment and you have to back women’s sport to really get it over the line.”
Melissa Barbieri
On the flip side, Victorian opposition spokesperson Sam Groth raises a valid concern about the potential blow to the state’s sporting reputation. As the self-proclaimed major events capital, Victoria’s decision not to bid for such a prestigious event has left many perplexed. Could this be a sign of a changing game plan or a temporary benching?
While the debate continues, one thing remains clear: the Matildas continue to capture hearts and inspire fans across Australia. Despite Victoria’s absence from the bidding lineup, the spirit of women’s football burns brightly, with upcoming clashes and events keeping the excitement alive.
So, was Victoria’s decision to skip the bid a strategic pass or a missed shot at glory? Only time will tell as the Matildas forge ahead, proving that no matter where they play, their talent and tenacity shine through, captivating audiences and championing the power of women’s sport.
