The full Commonwealth Bank Matildas squad has arrived in Sydney and are looking forward to being back in front of a home crowd ahead of Australia’s clash with Brazil on 23 October 2021 at CommBank Stadium.
After an absence from last month’s FIFA Window, Commonwealth Bank Matildas midfielder Emily van Egmond is looking forward to the Brazil series that commences on 23 October 2021 at CommBank Stadium.
"It's been 18 months since a home game, and we're just as excited as everyone else," Van Egmond said.
Van Egmond's last time in camp was at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, missing our friendly against the Republic of Ireland, so she is relishing the opportunity to be back around the team on home soil.
After playing every minute in our historic Olympic campaign, the Newcastle native travelled home to spend time with her family.
“Post-Olympics I actually came home, quarantined and then I just spent some time with my family,” Van Egmond said.
Following the conclusion of the Tokyo 2020, the centurion had an extended break with Van Egmond last week notching up her first club minutes since the Olympics. The short stint with Orlando Pride was a welcome one.
“I had a few things going on with my club, trying to sort out my VISA.
"Thankfully that’s figured out now and I’m super excited to be back here in Australia. We are so fortunate to be able to play home games again and we can’t wait to see everyone come out for the game.”
READ: Ultimate Guide: Australia v Brazil
Van Egmond has re-signed with Orlando Pride after spending last season with West Ham United in the WSL, making 21 total appearances and netting four goals.
The midfielder made her return to the field in Pride's most recent game, coming on in the 76th minute. Days later she was jetting back off to home to Australia to prepare for our two-match series against Brazil.
“I was only there for a couple of days but it was good. It was awesome but in saying that, coming back here, being around the girls and being around this team, it feels similar.”
Van Egmond is well accustomed to our opponents, playing alongside Brazilian superstar Marta at Orlando Pride. With the 2022 AFC Asian Cup just on the horizon, these games and camp are a perfect opportunity to build cohesion in the squad.
"Every FIFA window, every game that we get is an opportunity to get ourselves better,"
Catch all the action live and free on 10 and simulcast on 10 Play as Australia hosts Brazil. Kick-off is at 7.45pm AEDT.
Match Details
Commonwealth Bank Matildas v Brazil
Saturday, 23 October 2021
Venue: CommBank Stadium, Sydney
Kick Off: 7.50pm (AEST)
Broadcast: Live and free on 10 and simulcast on 10 Play
Tickets available at Ticketek
Commonwealth Bank Matildas v Brazil
Tuesday, 26 October 2021
Venue: CommBank Stadium, Sydney
Kick Off: 8.05pm (AEST)
Broadcast: Live and free on 10 Bold and simulcast on 10 Play
Tickets available at Ticketek