Matildas fans have rushed to secure their seats at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup next year, with first tickets to the national football team’s Gold Coast match sold out.
AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 Local Organising Committee COO Sarah Walsh said the sell-out of the Group A clash against Iran on March 5 was a sensational milestone for the tournament.
“The response from fans has been phenomenal,” Ms Walsh said.
“To see the first ticket allocation exhausted already shows the incredible passion for women’s football and what this tournament means to Australians.”
She said the Gold Coast would be hosting other Group A matches, with Iran playing 2022 runners-up Korea on March 2, the Philippines playing Korea on March 5, and Iran playing the Philippines on 8 March.
“Momentum is building right across the country, and this is just the beginning as we know this will be a record-breaking tournament.
“Every match will showcase Asia’s best players, world-class football and unforgettable atmospheres, so we’re encouraging fans to get in early while great seats are still available.”
State Sport and Racing Minister Tim Mander said the Cup was expected to generate $12.5 million in visitor spend for the State.
“Queensland is the home of Australian sport and there was never any doubt tickets to Australia’s game on the Gold Coast would sell fast,” Minister Mander said.
“The Matildas are one of our most followed and loved national sporting teams, and wherever they go, they capture attention and the impact of this team playing on the Gold Coast will be felt by the community for a long time to come.”
City of Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the ticket sales would have a positive impact on the Gold Coast community.
“Gold Coast stadium will be a sea of Green and Gold come March with fans snapping up seats to witness the Matildas’ take on Iran,” Mayor Tate said.
“The incredible uptake of tickets is great news for the game and for our local economy and I am excited to join the rest of the Gold Coast in cheering on the Tillys!”
