The Matildas' "stunning form, the rise of gender equality" and football's "global charm" mean "a perfect storm is brewing for Australia to host a booming 2023 Women's World Cup," according to David Davutovic of the HERALD SUN. That is the view of Asian Cup CEO Michael Brown, who said that the women's tournament "would surpass the stunning success" of the '15 edition. Brown added that the Australian federal government's $1M ($793,200) feasibility pledge is "money well spent," with another A$4M ($3.2M) committed if Australia wins the FIFA vote. More than 650,000 fans attended the 16-team Asian Cup, but a 24-team Women's World Cup "could exceed that." Brown: "The government, FFA [Football Federation Australia] and A-League clubs should be doing everything, if you really want to make a mark on the world stage. At a time when gender equality in sport is becoming critical, what a fantastic opportunity for the country and governments to get behind the biggest sport in the world by hosting the Women's World Cup" (HERALD SUN, 9/21).
