The Matildas record-breaking World Cup campaign wraps up tomorrow with the third-place match against Sweden.

After their devastating 3-1 loss to England in Wednesday’s semi-final Australia must regroup, and will have another hard match against the world’s third-ranked team, who knocked out reigning world champions the US earlier in the tournament.

The teams face off in Brisbane tomorrow night, while England will contest the final with Spain on Sunday.

“Viewership records have been broken, ticket sales have been broken, merchandise is out of stock around the nation and the expectation is that there will be an increase in the number of girls (and boys) who will sign up to play football,” women’s football site Beyond 90 told Central News.

“It’s a good game where the Matildas can continue to showcase their strengths and the fans can give them the ultimate send-off by loud cheering and support.”

Wednesday’s semi-final made history as the most viewed television event in Australian history, with over 11 million people across the country tuning in.

No matter the outcome of Saturday’s game, the tremendous efforts of the ‘Tillies’ have paid off, with this the furthest any Australian football team, mens or womens, has gone in a World Cup.

Can the Tillies win?

Sweden is currently ranked third in the world, with Australia in 10th place. However, the last time Australia went up against Sweden in a 2022 friendly, the Matildas won 4-0.

Matildas defender Alanna Kennedy did not play in Wednesday night’s match due to illness and it is currently unknown if she will play against Sweden.

Star Captain Sam Kerr has been battling a calf injury this season, yet managed to play the full 90 minutes in the semi-final, securing Australia’s only goal in a flawless and electrifying strike.

“It’s been an enjoyable ride to be on. I guess regardless of the calf, it’s been an amazing honour to be here,” she said after Wednesday’s loss.

With the Swedish team having optimal fitness levels and no injuries, the Matildas will have to fight hard to land a spot on the podium. The Swedes have a successful history in the battle for bronze. In 1991, 2011, and 2019, they placed 3rd.

Australia continues to stand behind the Matildas

Although the dream of Aussie gold being won on home soil is lost, Australia continues to be immensely proud of the Matildas with Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese calling the team “an absolute inspiration”.

He noted the tremendous impact this World Cup has had on the nature, success, and support women’s soccer, and female sport in general, has seen over the past month, saying: “You’ve given us all moments and memories that will last a lifetime… I have no doubt that the next generation of Matildas were watching.”

Attacker Emily van Egmond hopes the wave of Matilda fever sweeping the nation will continue as the conclusion of the World Cup nears.

“My message is that I hope that this is just the beginning and that they [the fans] continue to support this team,” she said.

Midfielder Katrina Gorry also urged the influx of new fans to continue to show support and pride for the Matildas, saying: “There’s still so much to go for. Don’t jump off the bandwagon now, keep on coming and I’m sure we’ll make you proud.”

Saturday’s match can be watched/streamed live on Channel 7 and Optus Sport, with kick-off at 6pm.

Main image montage of screenshots courtesy Optus Sport.