by Georgie Lewis (8/8/25)

Above: The Matildas will be hoping for more celebrations when they travel to Cardiff in October. Photo: Football Australia.

Fresh off a historic summer at the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025, Wales will return to the pitch against one of the global heavyweights of the women’s game — Australia’s Matildas — in a landmark friendly at Cardiff City Stadium on Saturday 25th October.

The clash will mark the first-ever senior international meeting between Wales and Australia, bringing together two sides at different points in their journeys, but both riding waves of momentum.

Cymru’s Homecoming After Making History

This will be Wales’ first match following their major tournament debut, with Rhian Wilkinson’s side now returning to home soil to take on a Matildas outfit that finished fourth at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and features some of the most recognisable names in the game.

Wilkinson says the fixture is more than just a celebration — it’s a statement of intent.

“Making history by reaching a major tournament for the first time has been an incredible experience,” she said.

“The match against Australia will be the perfect way to celebrate our players, but also to look ahead. As we continue to grow and challenge ourselves against some of the best teams in the world, Australia are the perfect opponents. I hope the Red Wall – the regulars and new fans – will come out in their numbers.”

Above: Wales legend Jess Fishlock. Photo: Ashley Crowden/FAW.

Australia’s European Test

For the Matildas, this friendly forms part of their October international window, with head coach Joe Montemurro using the occasion to continue shaping the team ahead of the 2026 Asian Women’s Cup. Australia are also expected to play a second fixture in Europe during the window.

“Wales are a competitive side and the perfect test for us,” Montemurro said, “It’s important that we use these international windows to build combinations, develop depth, and test ourselves in different environments. Playing in Europe helps create that competitive edge.”

The match also offers a rare chance for Matildas fans in the UK to see stars like Caitlin Foord and Steph Catley, with many of the squad currently based in the Women’s Super League.

A Match That Means Something

While technically a friendly, the fixture carries weight for both sides. For Wales, it’s a chance to keep building — not just tactically, but culturally — after a summer that captured the nation’s attention. For Australia, it’s a continuation of a long-term plan under a new coach, with Paris 2024 just behind them and the Asian Cup on home soil ahead on the horizon.

And for fans? It’s a chance to witness two passionate, ambitious teams collide for the very first time — and to see what the future of women’s football looks like on either side of the world.

Wales v Australia
📍 Cardiff City Stadium, Cardiff
📅 Saturday 25 October 2025 (BST) / Sunday 26 October 2025 (AEDT)
🕑 2:00pm BST / 12:00am AEDT
📺 Live in Australia on Paramount+

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