The biggest FIFA Women's World Cup finally gets under way today, with Australia and New Zealand co-hosting the ninth edition. And, for the first time, it will feature 32 nations including defending world champions the United States.
New Zealand is launching the tournament against Norway at Eden Park before Australia play the Republic of Ireland at Stadium Australia, in Sydney, to get what could be the most-watched Women's World Cup, with more than 1.3 million tickets bought in advance for the 64 matches at 10 venues across nine cities. Organisers are targeting a record two billion television viewers for the 2023 edition, a figure that would double the audience that watched the 2019 World Cup in France.
It promises to be the biggest Women's World Cup ever, with 32 teams taking part and record numbers of tickets sold. With the United States chasing a fifth world title and England looking to add to their EURO 2022 glory, the likes of France, Canada, Norway, Brazil, Spain, Brazil, China, Sweden, The Netherlands, Jamaica and Japan will be seen as serious challengers to the coveted trophy. The Republic of Ireland, Vietnam, Zambia, Haiti, Morocco, Panama, the Philippines and Portugal will be making their debuts.
"The future is women. Thanks to the fans for supporting what will be the greatest FIFA Women's World Cup ever," FIFA president Gianni Infantino said just ahead of the tournament.
With nine host cities, Australia will host five, whilst four will be in New Zealand. The final takes place at Stadium Australia on 20 August.
