France was the perfect venue for the biggest Women’s World Cup event in history.
From the amazing opening game on June 7 to the final on July 7 it was women’s football at its finest.
The spectators set a new standard in football for excellent behaviour and a supportive environment.
With matches across 9 cities in France it was also the perfect tourism event.
The Football
The level of football was outstanding. 24 teams across 9 locations made it difficult to decide what matches to watch.
USA entered as favourites and reigning campions and kicked off a packed house match in Paris against France.
The final was contested in Lyon with Netherlands making their first World Cup final. The match in Lyon was won by USA 2 -0 before an enthusiastic crowd.
The Fans
58 000 fans packed Parc de Princes Paris for the opening ceremony and first games.
Across the country there were enthusiastic and well behaved crowds. Lyon staged a fans mini-football competition.
The Orange Army (Netherlands) and the Matildas Active (Australia) had to be awarded the best fun supporters groups, while the USA and locals France came out in force.
Viewers from home also turned out in large numbers with over 1 billion viewers. The international broadcast of the finals had 82 million viewers setting a new tournament record.
The Food
France is synonymous with great food and wine.
From french pastries, lavender ice cream, french rose, creamy cheese – no one was disappointed.
The Travel and Tourism
Tourism was a key part of the tournament with supporters able to see the amazing sites for France.
Paris had so much to offer: historical sites; shopping; art and the tennis French Open!
The fast rail system made fast work of getting from one region to another.
The Matildas Active Song Sheets
And of course the traditional football chants.
