Matildas Face Marvel Stadium Challenge After P!nk Concert

Stand-in captain Steph Catley is unfazed by the prospect of the Matildas playing at Marvel Stadium just days after a P!nk concert, as the team gears up for their match following a challenging journey.

After encountering a soft, snow-covered field in their previous match in Uzbekistan, Australia now prepares to tackle a firmer, faster surface in Melbourne‘s Marvel Stadium, notoriously known for its hardness during AFL season due to its underground parking structure.

The stadium, which recently hosted two concerts by pop icon P!nk, underwent a swift transformation in preparation for Wednesday’s game after being used for the musical events over the weekend.

Deputizing for the injured Sam Kerr, Melbourne native Steph Catley expressed no reservations about the pitch conditions, especially following the Matildas’ taxing travel schedule involving stops in Dubai, Tashkent, and the UAE.

Catley, along with coach Tony Gustavsson, inspected the stadium pitch ahead of training and remarked positively on its appearance and condition, indicating readiness for the upcoming match.

Despite some patchy areas near the goal line due to the concert setup, Gustavsson praised the pitch’s suitability for the Matildas’ style of play, emphasizing the need for adequate watering to facilitate quick, slick football.

Gustavsson’s directive for abundant watering seemed to have been heeded, with the pitch receiving thorough hydration prior to the team’s training session on Tuesday afternoon.