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CommBank Stadium lights up Green & Gold as football fans welcome home Socceroos heroes on Friday night

The Socceroos play Ecuador on Friday night at CommBank Stadium, the match billed as something of a “Thank You” to fans who so lifted the team on their memorable run to the Round of 16 in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.

And for sure there’ll be mutual admiration from players to fans and back again. It was a brilliant journey for the nation and with a bit of luck Australia could’ve gone deeper – how we leapt in the air when Garang Kuol nearly slid one past Argentina goal-keeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez.

Today Kuol, 18, is but one of the storylines among those picked by Socceroos coach Graham Arnold. And while 20 of the 26-man squad were in Qatar, there’s plenty of interest in how uncapped young ones go.

Consider Alexander Robertson. The 19-year-old played junior football with Hakoah Sydney City East FC before heading to the UK to play youth team football at famous Manchester United.

He was then poached by cross-town rivals Manchester City, where he currently trains as a midfielder under Pep Guardiola and alongside superstars Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne.

Robertson also represented England at several junior levels and qualifies to represent Scotland and Peru. Yet when Arnold called ahead of the Socceroos game against Ecuador on Friday night at CommBank Stadium, Robertson was all in for Australia.

A family matter, you see. If he gets on the field, Robertson will follow in the footsteps of father Mark (who debuted for the Socceroos in 2001) and grandfather Alex Snr (1984).

“To be a third generation to pull on that Socceroos jersey would be something special,” Robertson says.

On the players he’s largely meeting for the first time this week, Robertson says he can’t wait to be a part of what appears such a strong and happy camp.

“I feel like the whole group and the camp itself, looking from the outside, looks really strong. They all look ‘together’ as a team and you saw that at the World Cup.

“Me going in there, I can’t wait to go and play with good players. I just want to add my qualities and values to the team and then hopefully we can get some more success in the future,” Robertson says.

Fans will have a first peak at that future on Friday night at CommBank Stadium when the Socceroos campaign for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ in North America and Mexico begins.

While this match is being promoted as a homecoming, it’s three years from when Arnold will have a good idea of his squad. Thus every match in the green-and-gold is a chance to impress the gaffer.

Along with established stars jetting in from leagues around the world – names like Maty Ryan, Milos Degenek, Aaron Mooy and Mitch Duke were on front and back pages last year – Arnold has picked several uncapped players along with Robertson, notably Aiden O’Neill (24, Melbourne City), Joe Gauci (22, Adelaide United) and Jordan Bos (20, Melbourne City).

The exotically-named Nestory Irankunda – a goal-scoring winger from Adelaide United who turned 17 in February – has been brought into the squad as a “train-on” player. Arnold, though, has hinted Irankunda might spend some minutes on the field.

And if that happens and the Tanzanian teengager does half of what Kuol did for the A-Leagues All Stars in last year’s match against Barcelona, Arnold will have found another hot one.

And another great story of Australia.

Arnold says Irankunda has “special qualities”.

“For a kid at the age of 17 . . . the physique on him, the speed on him – it’s exciting.

“He’s coming in for an experience but that’s not ruling out game time,” Arnold says.

While important to his forward planning for 2026, for Arnold the match is also a chance to give back to fans. The Socceroos took the country on a trip in Qatar in 2022 and the players and officials were very aware of the buzz they created back home. Indeed they thrived on it.

“We saw the scenes back home in Australia during the World Cup and it would be wonderful to recreate that buzz and excitement during this upcoming series, where football fans can thank the players for their efforts and together, we can reminisce on a special moment in Australian sporting history,” Arnold says.

Confirmed! Socceroos’ Homecoming Match at CommBank Stadium in March

The Subway Socceroos will return home to Australia for the first time since their history-making feats at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ when they host Ecuador at CommBank Stadium in Sydney on Friday 24 March (8pm kick-off).

With most of the Subway Socceroos’ squad returning to their respective club sides around the world straight after the Round of 16 match against Argentina, the March FIFA International window will be the first time the squad has been able to come home to Australia to celebrate with family, friends, and fans.

“What the Subway Socceroos achieved in Qatar both on and off the pitch was history-making and truly united the nation like no other team could, so it’s fantastic Australian football fans finally get the opportunity to celebrate with the team on home soil with these two matches against Ecuador,” said Football Australia CEO James Johnson.

“Ecuador is a team that competed at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar last year and has good World Cup pedigree. These are the types of matches we will seek to secure for the Subway Socceroos in this next FIFA World Cup cycle and as the team moves towards the upcoming AFC Asian Cup.

“During the FIFA World Cup, we witnessed unrivalled scenes of support with live sites across the country including capacity crowds at Tumbalong Park in Darling Harbour, and we look forward to celebrating together on Friday 24 March at CommBank Stadium.

“Football Australia would like to thank the NSW Government, through their tourism and major events agency Destination NSW, for their continued support of Australian football and our senior national football teams.

“Without the support of such committed event partners over many years, hosting international matches such as these would not be possible,” concluded Johnson.

Subway Socceroos’ Head Coach Graham Arnold said this homecoming series is an opportunity for Australian football and football fans to finally celebrate together the achievements of this team in Qatar.

“It’s fantastic we get this opportunity to gather again as a squad and reflect upon what we achieved at the

FIFA World Cup in Qatar,” Arnold said.

“Throughout the FIFA World Cup, we saw the incredible support the team was receiving back in Australia, and we are very much looking forward to finally celebrating together.”

Subject to availability, Arnold plans to call up a similar looking squad to that which represented Australia with such distinction in Qatar, while acknowledging that this series also presents a strong test on the park for the Subway Socceroos, whose quest to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026 starts this November and the AFC Asian Cup™ in early 2024.

“Selection for these two matches is our way of showing our gratitude for what the players sacrificed during the qualifying campaign and their achievements at the World Cup. As further reward, these players will be given the first opportunity to impress the coaching staff and get on the blank selection sheet as we move forward into the next cycle,” concluded Arnold.

NSW Minister for Tourism Ben Franklin said the match would be a fantastic opportunity for football fans to come together to cheer on their local heroes.

“Sydney is celebrating football in a big way, so it is fantastic that the Subway Socceroos will be playing their first home game since the FIFA World Cup 2022TM right here in the Harbour City,” Mr Franklin said.

“Sydney certainly has football fever, and we can’t wait to welcome the players, officials and fans to CommBank Stadium for this exciting match.”

NSW Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said NSW has a huge participation and supporter base for football.

“We recently welcomed home the CommBank Matildas for the Cup of Nations tournament across NSW and later this year Sydney will host the most games of any city for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023TM including

the Final,” Mr Henskens said.

“International football is front of mind for Sydney and NSW right now and it is a privilege to see our national teams play in our state, uniting fans in celebration and inspiring players of all levels and demographics.”

Tickets for Subway Socceroos v Ecuador in Sydney will go on sale to Football Account holders at 9am (AEDT) Friday 3 March, and to the General Public from 9am Monday 6 March. Tickets will start at $10 for Juniors and $20 for Adults with Concessions starting at $15.

Football Australia can confirm that $1 from every ticket sold for both matches will be donated to the CommBank Pararoos. The CommBank Pararoos are Australia’s national men’s football team for athletes with cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury, or symptoms acquired from stroke.

SUBWAY SOCCEROOS’ WELCOME HOME SERIES – MATCH SCHEDULE

Match Day One

Date: Friday 24 March

Venue: CommBank Stadium, Sydney

Time: 8pm (AEDT)

Tickets: https://premier.ticketek.com.au

Broadcast: Live on 10 in Sydney and Melbourne, 10 Bold in Adelaide, Brisbane, and Perth, and on 10 Play and Paramount+.

Match Day Two

Date: Tuesday 28 March

Venue: Marvel Stadium, Melbourne

Time: 7:30pm (AEDT)

Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.com.au/

Broadcast: Live on 10 Bold, 10 Play and Paramount+

It’s ON! Liberty A-League Women’s Grand Final locked in for CommBank Stadium Sunday 30 April

The Australian Professional Leagues (APL) has unveiled CommBank Stadium in Western Sydney as the hosting venue for the 2022-23 Liberty A-League Women Grand Final on Sunday 30 April.

Ticket sales will open at 3pm Tuesday 21 February giving fans more opportunity than ever before to plan as the A-Leagues hope to achieve a record crowd at the women’s showpiece event.

In a historic year for women’s football, with bumper CommBank Matildas crowds and 500,000 tickets already sold for the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023™, the Liberty A-League Women’s Grand Final marks another exciting moment on the women’s football calendar.

Commenting on the announcement, Danny Townsend, A-Leagues CEO, said: “With more girls playing football than ever before, the Matildas flying high, and the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023™ on our doorstep, this is truly an extraordinary year for women’s football in Australia.

“We have expanded the league by three teams and extended the women’s season to match international benchmarks, so we have all the ingredients in place for the women’s game to explode as we have seen in leagues overseas.

“We want to secure a lasting legacy for women’s football, so we need everyone to get behind the Liberty A-League Women and show the world the incredible talent and support that exists here in Australia and New Zealand.”

The Liberty A-League Grand Final will kick off at 4pm and will be broadcast exclusively on 10Bold, 10Play and Paramount+.

NSW Minister for Tourism Ben Franklin said: “Sydney is the nation’s home of football with a huge participation and supporter base and of course the nation’s best football stadium infrastructure.

“In a year where Sydney is celebrating women’s football with the most games of any city for the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023™, it will be fantastic to see a packed CommBank Stadium for the Liberty A-League Women’s Grand Final as part of that celebration.”

To get your tickets head to Ticketek.

A-Leagues news and schedule at https://keepup.com.au/

It’s Jones v Cheika as Wallabies to take on Argentina at Sydney’s CommBank Stadium

The Wallabies will take on Argentina in their first Test match in Australia this year at CommBank Stadium on Saturday 15 July – a mouth-watering Test that will pit new coach Eddie Jones against former Wallabies mentor Michael Cheika.

Australia has confirmed its 2023 eToro Rugby Championship and Bledisloe Cup fixtures for 2023, which will set the foundations for their Rugby World Cup preparations which kicks off in France in September.

In a truncated version of the competition due to the sport’s showpiece tournament, the Wallabies will start their campaign against current World Champions South Africa at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria on July 8.

Then all eyes will be on CommBank Stadium in Western Sydney when Australia take on the Cheika-coached Argentina. The last time Argentina played at CommBank Stadium they pulled off a historic first-ever victory over the All Blacks (25-15 in November 2020).

The Australia v Argentina eToro Rugby Championship match at CommBank Stadium in Sydney on Saturday 15 July is proudly supported by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency Destination NSW.

Watch the Wallabies v Argentina Test match in style with a Premium Experience at CommBank Stadium. Enquire about premium seating and corporate hospitality [here]

The 2023 international schedule then sees Bledisloe Cup fixtures played back-to-back with the Wallabies hosting the All Blacks at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Saturday July 29. The MCG has only hosted just three Tests in the past, the last time back in 2007 where the Wallabies defeated New Zealand 20-15 in front of nearly 80,000 spectators. The team will then cross the ditch and run out at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin for the return clash on August 5, hoping to get their hands on the Bledisloe Cup for the first time since 2002.

Rugby Australia CEO Andy Marinos said: “2023 is a big year for our men in gold as we look ahead to the Rugby World Cup in France. The eToro Rugby Championship home fixtures are an important part of this preparation as we look forward to welcoming the Pumas and All Blacks to our backyard.

“With the Pumas at CommBank Stadium and All Blacks at the MCG there is a lot of exciting rugby ahead.

“With the Rugby World Cup less than nine months away I know the team will be wanting to get hold of some silverware before then and these matches will provide the perfect platform for this.”

“With a new Wallabies coach in charge and being the last coach to have won the Bledisloe Cup, expectations will be high throughout the international series.

“We would like to thank all of our partners and broadcasters for their continued support, as well as the State Governments for their ongoing support and co-operation in delivering world-class sporting events in Australia.”

Wallabies Head Coach Eddie Jones said: “The Rugby Championship is one of the toughest competitions in the world and to play against high-quality sides in South Africa, New Zealand and Argentina in a World Cup year is perfect preparation for our team.

“To be able to play in Sydney at CommBank Stadium against the Pumas is going to be a great hit-out and then you’ve got the MCG which is one of the most iconic stadiums in the world with 100,000 Wallabies supporters there cheering us on.

“There’s plenty to be done between now and then but I can’t wait to bring the team together and get to work.”

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2023 eToro Rugby Championship and Bledisloe Cup Fixtures

  • Wallabies v South Africa, 5:05pm SAST/1:05am AEST, Saturday 8 July at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria
  • Wallabies v Argentina, 7:45pm AEST, Saturday 15 July at CommBank Stadium, Sydney
  • Wallabies v New Zealand, 7:45pm AEST, Saturday 29 July at Melbourne Cricket Ground
  • Wallabies v New Zealand, 2:35pm NZST/12:35pm AEST Saturday 5 August at Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin

Cup of Nations tournament draws CommBank Matildas back to CommBank Stadium this February in lead-up to FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™

The CommBank Matildas – the pride of Australia – will take on Spain in the feature match of the Cup of Nations tournament at CommBank Stadium this February, in the build-up to the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023™.

The Cup of Nations will see the CommBank Matildas joined by fellow FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023™ contestants Spain and Jamaica, as well as Czechia.

CommBank Stadium in Western Sydney will host one of three double-headers in the Cup of Nations tournament, which has been secured by Football Australia with the support of Destination NSW, the lead government agency for the NSW tourism and major events sectors.

Gosford’s Industree Group Stadium will host Match Day 1 of the Cup of Nations on Thursday 16 February. Image Credit – Tiffany Williams/Football Australia

The six-match tournament will kick off at Industree Group Stadium in Gosford on 16 February with Spain playing Jamaica (4:10pm) followed by the CommBank Matildas against Czechia (7:10pm).

Three days later, the tournament will shift to CommBank Stadium in Western Sydney for Match Day 2 on Sunday 19 February, when Jamaica will play Czechia before a blockbuster clash between the CommBank Matildas and Spain.

Newcastle’s McDonald Jones Stadium will host Match Day 3 of the Cup of Nations on Wednesday 22 February when Czechia will take on Spain, and the CommBank Matildas will meet Jamaica in the last game of the competition.

Tickets for all matches will go on sale to Football Account holders at 12pm, Monday 16 January  and to the General Public from 12pm, Tuesday 17 January.

Tickets will start at $15 for Juniors and $25 for Adults with Concession starting at $20.

Western Sydney’s CommBank Stadium will host Match Day 2 of the Cup of Nations on Sunday 19 February. Image Credit – Joseph Mayers/Football Australia

The CommBank Matildas have a proud record at CommBank Stadium – the Home of Sport and Entertainment in Western Sydney. The Matildas set a then new crowd record for a home international in their first game at the redeveloped Stadium in November 2019 when 20,029 witnessed their 2-1 win over Chile.

The Matildas last played at the venue in October 2021 with back-to-back games against Brazil, winning the opening game 3-0 and drawing the second game 2-2.

Football Australia Chief Executive Officer James Johnson said he was delighted that the Australian public will experience more world-class football and cheer on the CommBank Matildas and their football heroes in the lead-up to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ campaign.

“February’s Cup of Nations will build on the success of the first tournament held in 2019 and be one of the final opportunities for fans to see the CommBank Matildas on home soil before the commencement of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023,” Mr Johnson said.

“The Cup of Nations will continue to take football to regional areas with the Central Coast, Greater Sydney and the Hunter presented with the opportunity to farewell the CommBank Matildas ahead of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, as well as get a taste for the international football festival that awaits in 2023.

“Three of the four sides will be aiming for success at the FIFA Women’s World Cup, and we expect the quality of the six matches to be world class.”

Newcastle’s McDonald Jones Stadium will host Match Day 3 of the Cup of Nations on Wednesday 22 February. Image Credit – Joseph Mayers/Football Australia

Minister for Tourism Ben Franklin said the Cup of Nations tournament would kick off a stellar year of women’s football in NSW, which will culminate with the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ Final being staged in Sydney.

“Football fever is stronger than ever in NSW and we can’t wait to welcome our Matildas home to compete in Gosford, Sydney and Newcastle in front of passionate fans from around the country,” Mr Franklin said.

Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said the Cup of Nations would build on the interest in the FIFA Men’s World Cup 2022™ and launch Australia into a year of football celebration.

“Australia is an incredibly proud sporting nation and I’m sure fans from near and far will enthusiastically take up the opportunity to cheer on our hometown heroes, the CommBank Matildas,” Mr Henskens said.

“It will be fantastic to see the Cup of Nations match days in Gosford, Sydney and Newcastle inspiring young footballers from all over to have a go as they travel to cheer on the world’s top athletes.”

CommBank Matildas Head Coach Tony Gustavsson said playing three matches against high-quality international opponents ahead of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ was a runway towards the major tournament.

“Spain, Czechia and Jamaica have been carefully selected for the Cup of Nations to ensure we have the right preparation heading into the FIFA Women’s World Cup,” Gustavsson said.

“Not only are all three nations filled with quality, but they also provide a difference in playing style and approach with the three match days aiming to mirror tournament group play to the best of our ability.

“As a team we love playing at home and the Cup of Nations will provide that opportunity to fully experience the “12th player” support from Australia.”

Australia will compete in Group B at the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023™ alongside Republic of Ireland, Nigeria and Canada, while Spain will contest Group C alongside Costa Rica, Zambia, and Japan. Jamaica will play in Group F alongside France, Brazil, and the Group C Play-Off winner. Czechia has not qualified for the tournament.

Football Australia acknowledges the considerable support of the Australian Government in supporting the high-performance pillar of our Legacy ’23 plan, designed to ensure that the CommBank Matildas are best prepared for the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023™, while ensuring the emergence of the next generation of CommBank Matildas.

The CommBank Matildas’ three Cup of Nations matches will be broadcast live across 10 Bold, 10 Play and Paramount+, with other matches live and exclusive to Paramount+.

2023 CUP OF NATIONS – MATCH SCHEDULE

Match Day One
Date: Thursday16 February, 2023
Venue: Industree Group Stadium, Gosford, NSW
Game 1: Spain v Jamaica – 4:10pm kick-off. Broadcast on Paramount+
Game 2: CommBank Matildas v Czechia – 7:10pm kick-off. Broadcast on 10 Bold, 10 Play and Paramount+
Tickets via Ticketek

Match Day Two
Date: Sunday 19 February 2023
Venue: CommBank Stadium, Sydney, NSW
Game 1: Jamaica v Czechia – 2:50pm. Broadcast on Paramount+
Game 2: CommBank Matildas v Spain – 6:00pm. Broadcast on 10 Bold, 10 Play and Paramount+
Tickets via Ticketek

Match Day Three
Date: Wednesday 22 February 2023
Venue: McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle, NSW
Game 1: Czechia v Spain – [3pm kick-off TBC]. Broadcast on Paramount+
Game 2: CommBank Matildas v Jamaica – 7:10pm kick-off. Broadcast on 10 Bold, 10 Play and Paramount+
Tickets via Ticketmaster

Sydney to host A-League Men’s and Women’s Grand Finals for next three years

 Sydney will host the Isuzu UTE A-League Men’s, Liberty A-League Women’s Grand Final, the E-League Grand Final and a host of other football related events in a three-year deal, beginning in 2023.

The partnership between the Australian Professional Leagues (APL) and Destination NSW, the lead government agency for the NSW Tourism and Major Events sectors, is designed to develop an engaging Grand Final experience for football fans in Australia and New Zealand.

Danny Townsend, CEO of the APL, said: “The FIFA World Cup 2023 showed that we are a country of football fans and whet the region’s appetite for the FIFA Women’s World Cup next year. But fans don’t want to wait for four years in-between competitions to see our best sporting talent perform.

“Football fans now get the best of both worlds – they can now look forward to a showpiece Grand Final event in a set location, as well as watching A-Leagues and national team stars week-in-week-out at their local A-Leagues team.

“This is a unique opportunity to build a tradition for football fans. When you think about a cup final in England, you think about the trip to Wembley, and we want fans in Australia to look forward to the A-Leagues Grand Finals in the same way.

“We have already broken the previous record for attendance this season in the Liberty A-League Women and have set an objective to make history again with Grand Final attendance in the year that we host the FIFA Women’s World Cup.”

The A-Leagues move mirrors that of major football events around the world choosing a major city for their marquee events and working with it to develop a truly memorable experience for fans.

Minister for Tourism Ben Franklin said the addition of the A-Leagues Grand Finals to Sydney’s annual sporting events calendar would have significant benefits for NSW.

“As the nation’s home of football I am delighted to be partnering with the APL to bring the Men’s and Women’s A-Leagues Grand Finals to Sydney,” Mr Franklin said.

“Sydney is renowned for hosting world-class sporting events and we are going to create a new tradition for Australian football fans, making the Grand Finals a week-long extravaganza that showcases football and the best of the Harbour City.

“Tens of thousands of football fans are expected to flock to Sydney for the A-Leagues Grand Finals and are forecast to inject $26 million of visitor expenditure into NSW.

“This is another incredible addition to the already impressive calendar of world-class major events we are building for Sydney, which is a key pillar of our goal to make NSW the major events capital and premier visitor economy of the Asia Pacific.”

Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said as the state with the greatest footprint on the nation’s football landscape now was an exciting time to showcase the round ball game.

“With the FIFA Women’s World Cup coming and on the back of the Socceroos historic world cup in Qatar, football in Australia has never been stronger,” Mr Henskens said.

“NSW is home to the most clubs in the A-Leagues competition, with the greatest supporter base, most passionate fans, the highest level of football participation and the best football venues, including Australia’s largest rectangular football stadium.

“This new week-long football event will provide football and sports fans with an experience unique to all other codes and cement the A-League Grand Finals amongst the very best sporting events on our national sporting calendar.”

Danny Townsend said that between now and the Grand Finals on 30 April (Women’s), 27 May (ELeague), Saturday 3 June (Men’s), and the Dolan Warren Awards on Thursday 1 June, the priority for his commercial team was to work with the NSW Government to create a ‘must see’ experience for fans.

The marquee fixtures will be supported by a range of other football-related events and activities.

“We are working with transport and accommodation providers to develop special packages for travelling fans, including our Official Hotel Partner IHG who have committed to offer a special discounted rate to travelling fans. Because we have certainty about which city will be hosting the final from a long way out, we are able to build a ‘Festival of Football’ around these major events.”

The A-Leagues Grand Finals are proudly supported by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW and Office of Sport.

APL previously partnered with Destination NSW for the return of the A-Leagues All Stars who took on FC Barcelona at Accor Stadium in front of 70,174 fans . . . the largest event crowd in NSW since 2019.

Western Sydney Long Lunch at CommBank Stadium to feature Australian food icon Matt Moran and superstar vocal group Human Nature

Western Sydney is OPEN FOR LUNCH . . . and to kick off a huge summer of outdoor events and world-class dining, CommBank Stadium has been chosen as the venue for a mouth-watering long lunch on Friday 2 December.

Promoted by Destination NSW – the State’s lead agency in support of tourism and events – Western Sydney Long Lunch at CommBank Stadium in Parramatta will feature a menu curated by Australian food icon Matt Moran and entertainment featuring Australia’s hugely popular vocal group Human Nature.

CommBank Stadium, the venue better known for hosting elite athletes and sporting events, will be the home ground for stars of another kind as Sydney’s hospitality royalty become the champions of summer.

On arrival, guests will be treated to an array of live stations showcasing the flavours of multicultural Western Sydney with food and beverages from some of the City of Parramatta’s finest restaurants, including Misc.Parramatta and Julian Cincotta’s Butter – the latter currently looking for new premises in the city.

Guests will then have the opportunity to delight in a wonderful paddock-to-plate experience designed by Western Sydney born and raised, Matt Moran, who is now Culinary Ambassador at CommBank Stadium.

The day will also feature a Motown’s Greatest Hits special by popular Australian band Human Nature.

Australian band Human Nature dressed in black tie and singing into old fashioned microphones.
Popular Australian band Human Nature will perform a Motown’s Greatest Hits feature at Western Sydney Long Lunch

Western Sydney Long Lunch will coincide with four separate OPEN FOR LUNCH events in Sydney’s CBD.

Four individual event precincts, spanning George Street from Park to Hunter Street, will see the diverse nature of Sydney’s dining scene come to life in a manner never before seen.

Open For Lunch is more than a Friday lunch outing. It promises to be a larger-than-life celebration of what Western Sydney does best: food, entertainment, and bringing people together. Diners will enjoy an amazing lunchtime event for only $65 per person (plus booking fee).

Interested diners can secure their seats at openforlunch.com.au from 9am Friday 18 November. But move fast, as tickets are limited.

OPEN FOR LUNCH is secured by the NSW Government via its tourism and major events agency Destination NSW. Open For Lunch is just one of the NSW Government’s Summer in Sydney event series. To find out more, plan your summer at sydney.com/events.

Western Sydney Long Lunch

CommBank Stadium, Parramatta  
Friday 2 December 
12noon to 3pm
Bookings are essential!

At only $65 per person (plus booking fee), this is an event not to be missed and tickets will sell out fast.

Fans Win With Return Train Travel Included In All Tickets to Wanderers v Everton Super Cup game at CommBank Stadium

Fans travelling to the blockbuster final stanza of the Sydney Super Cup between Everton FC and Western Sydney Wanderers have bagged the first win, with rail travel included in matchday tickets.

The included travel means fans can commute to and from Parramatta Station by simply showing their ticket to transport staff, before embarking on the short walk to CommBank Stadium.

The showdown on Wednesday 23 November will see the Wanderers’ welcome an international side back to Wanderland for the first time since 2019, when they were edged 2-1 by Leeds United.

Visiting Everton fans, in conjunction with the fans of the home side, are being encouraged to arrive in Parramatta early ahead of the 7.45pm kick-off by taking advantage of the free return rail travel included in their ticket.

Everton superfans Carolyn Polley-Peters and Kosman Thaengthong at CommBank Stadium in the countdown to the Sydney Super Cup games. Picture: Ayush Kumar

Tickets and premium experiences are still available for the match. Click here to secure your seat.

Toffees fans will be heading to The Commercial Hotel at 2 Hassall Street from 4pm, which is just a short stroll to the Stadium.

Fans will also have the opportunity to win signed Everton merch and enjoy the company of fellow Blues fans.

Fans coming by other modes of transport are encouraged to read our Transport Guide. Please note there is no public parking at CommBank Stadium, but there are a number of paid public parking station in Parramatta.

Everton are currently 16th in the top tier of English football and have former England and Chelsea legend Frank Lampard at the helm. Marko Rudan has the Wanderers competing for silverware in second spot of the Isuzu UTE A-League Men’s.

It will be Everton’s final game in Australia before the resumption of the English Premier League on Boxing Day.

The showdown will be the Red & Blacks’ final home game of 2022 before they return on New Year’s Day 2023 for a clash with Macarthur FC. Tickets for that match can be purchased here.

Parra Eels to kick off NRL season against Storm at CommBank Stadium before all eyes on Grand Final rematch against Panthers in Round 4

THE Parramatta Eels will host the opening game of the 2023 NRL season at CommBank Stadium with a blockbuster Thursday Night Footy clash against the Melbourne Storm on 2 March.

The Eels will also be at their spiritual home in Round 2, with a Friday night 6pm match-up against the Sharks on 10 March.

Then bring on Round 4 and a massive Grand Final rematch against Penrith Panthers at CommBank Stadium on Thursday 23 March (7:50pm)!

As the NRL released its much-anticipated season draw for 2023, the Eels were locked in for 11 huge home games at CommBank Stadium.

The Parramatta Eels (20,015) boasted the highest Sydney NRL average attendance of the regular-season in 2022 and the stage is set for another run of capacity crowds at CommBank Stadium in season 2023.

The Blue and Gold Army will be out in force for the clash with the Panthers as the mighty Eels get the chance to redeem themselves against the benchmark team of 2021-22.

Wests Tigers will play two home games at CommBank Stadium in season 2023 – against the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks in Round 19 on Thursday 6 July (7:50pm) and against new club the Dolphins in Round 25 on Saturday 19 August.

The Tigers will host the traditional Easter Monday game against the Parra Eels at nearby Accor Stadium in Sydney Olympic Park on 10 April.

The Easter Monday blockbuster traditionally draws one of the largest NRL club attendances of the season.

Among other home stadium highlights for the Parramatta Eels in season 2023:

  • The Eels will host great rivals the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs in a cracking Round 7 Sunday afternoon game at CommBank Stadium on 16 April (4pm);
  • Parra’s final two home games of the regular-season loom as vital in the context of the club’s season . . . against the St George Illawarra Dragons on Sunday 6 August (2pm) and the Sydney Roosters on Friday 18 August (8pm).

See the full 2023 NRL Draw here

Forever Everton Superfan Gears Up For The Sydney Super Cup

Story and pictures by Ayush Kumar

Maybe it was the fact Ian Butler was driving his blue Mustang down Everton Rd that gave it away. The number plate EVRTON probably helped too.

Just days out from Everton FC’s arrival for the Sydney Super Cup series, we’ve found a serious contender for the title of No.1 Everton superfan in Australia.

Ian, a 62-year-old father of two from Kellyville in Sydney’s north-west, has followed the storied English Premier League club for more than 50 years. He’s often seen driving his Blues-dedicated Mustang through the streets of Sydney, and even his family dog is called Seamus after the Everton club captain.

Everton FC are coming to Australia for the first time in 12 years to play in the Sydney Super Cup series, with matches against Scottish Premier League champions Celtic FC at Accor Stadium on Sunday 20 November and then Western Sydney Wanderers at CommBank Stadium on Wednesday 23 November.

Born and raised in the UK, at a working-class town called Crewe just 50km from Everton’s home ground Goodison Park, Ian was just eight years old when a local lorry driver started telling him stories about the blue side of Merseyside.

The rusted-on Toffees supporter, who delivered coal to the family farm, took the youngster to his first ever Everton game . . . against Leeds United at Goodison Park in 1968.

There was no turning back from that point and Ian has been a true Blues supporter ever since. He recalls catching the train with high-school mates to every home game to watch Everton play. He even enrolled at the University of Liverpool primarily so he could keep going to every Everton home game.

Ian’s love for Everton FC runs deep in his family as he describes his sons as even more passionate fans of the football club than himself.

The family home at Kellyville features a grand old team poster on the living room wall and there’s also a massive Everton badge on the wall in the TV room. “My wife doesn’t like it very much but it keeps the whole Everton theme going and I think my wife has just accepted it and it’s never going away now,” he said

The Butler family recently got a dog who they named Séamus after the Everton captain Seamus Coleman.

“My eldest boy used to have an Everton number plate as well when he was in NSW but had to give it away when he moved to Victoria as he could not get the same number plate there,” said Butler. “My sons’ rooms are Everton themed as well and they have all the kits, shirts and memorabilia.”

The last time Ian saw Everton play in a stadium was back in 2017 when he visited the UK with his family and witnessed Wayne Rooney score a screamer from the halfway mark against West Ham.

He says he’s counting the days till Everton arrives Down Under for the Sydney Super Cup matches.

“I don’t know which team wins here but I believe we have a good chance of winning both the games. However, honestly I am just really looking forward to see them play live again,” he said.

“Hopefully they bring a good strong side and we’re going to have two exciting contests. I’m especially looking forward to the match against the Wanderers at Parramatta’s CommBank Stadium, with the RBB at one end and us Everton fans behind the goal at the southern end.

“I’m really looking forward to both games and experiencing a live Everton match again.”

While fans keenly wait to see who is selected to play in Sydney as World Cup national selections are also finalised, Ian talks about passionately the players he hopes to see play in Sydney.

“I’d love to see Séamus Coleman obviously and Jordan Pickford, but unlikely this time around due to him being England’s first-choice goalkeeper and will be in the World Cup squad. He looks like he gets a bit emotional so I’d like to see him in real life. It’s also a new team compared to what we saw in the UK in 2017, so it’s a good opportunity to see a new group of players play.”

Leading in to the Sydney Super Cup matches, Ian and every other Everton supporter will be able to get up close and personal to the Blues stars when they appear at an Everton Open Training Session and Fan Party at Accor Stadium from 6:30pm on Friday 18 November.

Tickets and information about the Sydney Super Cup are available at sydneysupercup.com.au

Sydney Super Cup fans can ‘Hit the Spot’ to win

Australian football fans have the opportunity to step up to the spot and score a great range of prizes with the launch of the ‘Hit The Spot’ arcade game as part of the Sydney Super Cup.

The game, developed by leading technology, data and gamification company GTG Network, will test fans’ ability to beat the ‘keeper while representing their Sydney Super Cup team; Celtic FC, Everton FC, Sydney FC or Western Sydney Wanderers FC.

Fans can play, score goals and hit bonus targets using a range of techniques, tricks and bonuses – with their combined 10 best scores determining their ranking on the leaderboard.

However, it’s not just club pride on the line, with awesome prizes up for grabs to the top three scorers.

The top three will secure a great range of prizes, with first place securing a $500 Accor Hotels eGift Card. Second place will take home either a signed Celtic FC or Everton FC jersey and a Sydney Super Cup match ball, with third scoring a match ball.

The competition will close at 12-noon on Sunday 20 November, the same afternoon that Celtic FC take on Everton FC at Accor Stadium, with the winner to be announced at the game.

GTG delivers highly bespoke products which focus on customer and fan engagement. With core divisions comprising data insights, automated sports content and gamification, GTG works with the biggest brands in the world to deliver uniquely better experiences and maximise value in direct relationships and broad scale partnerships.

“We’re delighted to be partnering with Sydney Super Cup to help promote these exciting events. GTG Network’s ability to deliver custom arcade games for event promotion is adding further excitement to the Sydney Super Cup. The team have been terrific to work with and we look forward to some great games of soccer,” GTG Co-Founder and Partner Nathan Rothschild said.

Tickets and Corporate Hospitality for the Sydney Super Cup are still available and can be purchased here, including the Everton v Western Sydney Wanderers game at CommBank Stadium.

Think you’ve got what it takes to win it all? Play Hit The Spot here.

Sydney takes on Blue hue as Everton fans unveil a week of Super Cup celebrations

The Australian-based Everton supporters’ club has unveiled a spectacular week of events to coincide with the famous English Premier League club’s first Aussie visit in 12 years.

Everton FC will play two huge games as part of the four-club Sydney Super Cup series – taking on Scottish Premier League champions Celtic FC at Accor Stadium at Sydney Olympic Park on Sunday 20 November and then Western Sydney Wanderers at their Parramatta home base of CommBank Stadium on Wednesday 23 November.

Chair of the Everton Supporters’ Club Australia, John Kelly, said excitement is building within the club’s fan base as they prepare to come together to cheer on the Blues.

“We can’t wait to welcome fans from around the world to Sydney,” he said.

“I’d encourage everyone who is coming into town for Everton’s Sydney Super Cup games to come along to our events, consume everything Everton with fellow Blues, and then cheer on the team against Celtic and Western Sydney Wanderers.”

Everton’s First Team squad will hold an Open Training Session at Accor Stadium on Friday 18 November (6:30pm). The session will allow supporters to see the Blues’ stars put through their paces in the lead-up to their clash with Celtic at the same venue. No tickets are required for the free event, which is open to fans of all ages.

Everton superfans Carolyn Polley-Peters and Kosman Thaengthong at CommBank Stadium in the countdown to the Sydney Super Cup games. Picture: Ayush Kumar

The day before the Celtic game, on Saturday 19 November, supporters will have the opportunity of a lifetime by joining other Blues for a cruise around the famous Sydney Harbour. The two-hour cruise will take in some of Australia’s most recognised sights – sailing past the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House.

The Everton-themed cruise will also feature a Q&A with Everton legends, music and access to a cash bar. Organised by Evertonians, for Evertonians, the two chartered cruises are available at a special price of $69 AUD (around £40) and will depart from Commissioner’s Steps on Circular Quay at 12noon and 2pm (AEDT). With both cruises expected to sell out, supporters are advised to book early.

Supporters are strongly encouraged to take advantage of the fact all tickets to both of Everton’s Sydney Super Cup fixtures include return train travel to the game-day precincts of Olympic Park (versus Celtic) and Parramatta (v Western Sydney Wanderers).

Tickets for both of Everton’s Sydney Super Cup matches in Australia are now on general sale. Evertonians wishing to attend the game against Celtic at the Accor Stadium can purchase tickets in block 141, 142 and 143. Click here to buy tickets for Everton v Celtic

An Everton section will also be in place at the CommBank Stadium leg with supporters guided to purchase tickets in blocks 104, 105 and 106. Click here to buy tickets for Everton v Western Sydney Wanderers

 

A full list of Everton Supporters’ Events for Sydney Super Cup

(All times AEDT)

Friday 18 November, 6:30pm
Open Training
Accor Stadium at Sydney Olympic Park.
No tickets required, free event, supporters of all ages welcome.

Saturday 19 November, 12noon and 2:15pm
Blues’ Cruise around Sydney Harbour
Commissioner’s Steps on Circular Quay.
Click here to book tickets

Saturday 19 November, 5pm
ESCA Welcome Drinks for all Evertonians
The Argyle, 11 Argyle St, The Rocks
No tickets required. Everyone welcome

Sunday 20 November, 10am and post-match
Everton Pre-Match Fan Pub
Aurora Bar
324 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills
No tickets required everyone welcome

Sunday 20 November. Gates Open 1:10pm. Warm-Ups 2pm, Kick-Off 2:45pm
Match Day: Everton v Celtic
Accor Stadium, Sydney Olympic Park
Click here to buy tickets for Everton v Celtic

Monday 21 November, 10pm
England v Iran: watch-along including Q&A Everton Legends
Cheers Sports Bar & Grill, 561 George St, Sydney
Ticket details will be confirmed in due course

Wednesday 23 November, 4pm
Everton Pre-Match Fan Pub
The Commercial Hotel, 2 Hassall St, Parramatta
No tickets required. Everyone welcome

Wednesday 23 November. Gates Open 6:30pm. Warm-Ups 7pm. Kick-Off 7:45pm
Match Day: Everton v Western Sydney Wanderers
CommBank Stadium, O’Connell St, Parramatta NSW 2150
Click here to buy tickets for Everton v Western Sydney Wanderers

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