The Westfield Matildas will play the first ever national football team fixture at Bankwest Stadium on Saturday 9 November when they host Chile as part of a two-match series.

The NSW Government via Destination NSW has secured the women’s international football friendly between the Westfield Matildas and Chile in November.

Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said he was delighted the high-profile match had been secured for Parramatta.

“Western Sydney truly is a powerhouse for tourism and major events, and this has only been strengthened since the new world-class Bankwest Stadium opened earlier this year,” Mr Ayres said.

“Major sporting events play a vital role in attracting visitors to our wonderful Harbour City, and what better place to host an international friendly than right in the heart of Western Sydney.

“There is so much to see and do in Parramatta, whether that’s taking advantage of the wide variety of cuisines at local restaurants and ‘eat streets’, enjoying the outdoors at the World Heritage Listed Parramatta Park, or hopping on a ferry along the Parramatta River.”

Minister for Sport John Sidoti said the NSW Government is a proud champion of women in sport.

“Supporting this international friendly between the Westfield Matildas and Chile aligns with the NSW Government’s broader vision of helping to grow and promote women’s sport,” Mr Sidoti said.

“We recently announced our support for the bid to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023.

“The NSW Government is determined to continue to support major events like these which not only showcase some incredible talent in our great State, but also inspire the next generation of sporting superstars.”

Westfield Matildas Head Coach Ante Milicic today welcomed confirmation that his team will take on Chile in Parramatta as Australia begins to set its sights on qualification for next year’s Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

“Chile performed admirably in a difficult group at this year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup in France, and will provide a strong challenge for us as we seek to develop as a unit leading up to our Tokyo 2020 Olympic Qualifiers which commence in February next year,” Mr Milicic said.

“There is both pride and excitement among our players and staff that we will play the first ever national team fixture at Bankwest Stadium, and we are confident that we can count on a strong and passionate crowd for what should be a memorable afternoon in Sydney’s west.”

Tickets for general public are on sale from 11am (AEST) Thursday 5 September at www.matildas.com.au.