Westfield Junior Matildas head coach Rae Dower previews Sunday morning's FIFA Women's World Cup draw.
27 June, 2015. Edmonton. The Commonwealth Stadium. Australia 0, Japan 1.
As I sat in the stands with the Aussie supporters that hot Canadian summers day, our hearts collectively sank. It would be another four years to wait until we got back on to that world stage.
Since that Quarter-Final exit, this is a day we’ve all been anticipating.
The draw for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in France next year takes place this Sunday morning (4am AEDT).
READ: How to watch the FIFA Women's World Cup draw
The Westfield Matildas will find out their opponents for the 2019 tournament as they begin their quest for World Cup glory.
As a sporting nation that prides itself on never taking a backward step, the Matildas embody all the qualities that Australians hold dear to their hearts.
Their ‘never say die’ attitude and fierce commitment to win with passion as they represent their country with pride resonates with all fans of the beautiful game.
I am sure that whichever teams we draw in the tournament, they will present us with some great football challenges to navigate, which is when the Australian spirit will come to the fore.
Whoever they are, we know they will be worthy opponents who have made their own way to the World Cup.
As a fan, I can’t wait to see what parts of France I’ll be travelling to and getting to cheer on the Matildas next year.