- Published:
- Wednesday 7 October 2026
Geelong is kicking goals on the international stage, with the Matildas set to face Colombia at Kardinia Park.
On Wednesday, 2 December thousands of football fans will flock to Geelong for the blockbuster game.
The final of the two-match series will set the stage for next year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ in Brazil.
The game will be the second time the Matildas have played in Geelong in the past two years.
They drew in more than 30,000 fans in 2024, claiming a 6-0 victory against Chinese-Taipei.
Kardinia Park is Australia’s premier regional major events destination, making it the perfect venue for the match.
Labor’s $142 million Joel Selwood Stand boosted the world-class stadium’s capacity to 40,000 in 2024.
Only Labor is delivering a summer packed with major events for the Bellarine Peninsula and Surf Coast.
Drawcards like the Festival of Sails and Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race will bring visitors to the region.
The Matildas will also return to the Home of the Matildas at La Trobe University to train for the clash.
Victoria’s major events calendar generated $3.64 billion in economic impact in 2025 and attracted close to 8 million attendances, supporting almost 17,000 jobs across the sector and broader visitor economy.
Future visitor growth is at risk from Jess Wilson’s $40 billion worth of cuts to Victoria.
Tickets to the Matildas v Colombia match go on sale on Monday, 12 October from Ticketmaster.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Major Events Anthony Carbines
“Labor is turning Kardinia Park green and gold again, giving locals a chance to see the Tillies on their doorstep.”
“Jess Wilson’s Liberal-One Nation Coalition has a $40 billion cuts plan that poses a real risk to Geelong’s economy.”
Quote attributable to Member for Geelong Christine Couzens
“Only Labor is giving Geelong locals another unforgettable opportunity to experience international football.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant
“We’re making sure the Bellarine has a summer calendar worth getting excited about.”
Quote attributable to Member for Lara Ella George
“Matildas fans will fill our stadium, our shops and our hospitality venues, thanks to Labor.”
Quote attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
“Having the Matildas back in Geelong puts our region on the national and international stage.”
Quote attributable to Visit Victoria CEO Brendan McClements
“This blockbuster clash will drive visitation across the Geelong region, support local businesses and showcase Victoria’s unmatched ability to host world-class sporting events.”
Quotes attributable to Football Australia Executive Director of Football and Deputy CEO, Heather Garriock
"We're delighted to bring the CommBank Matildas back to Victoria for what promises to be a special occasion for football fans, as our FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ preparations intensify.”
“The support the team receives whenever they play in Victoria is always outstanding, and we sincerely thank the Victorian Government for its continued support of football and for bringing these special events to communities across the state.”