Australia’s association with the competition began while they were still part of the Oceania Football Confederation - achieving semi-final finishes in 1975 and 1980.

It was 26 years before they returned to the competition, this time as part of Asian Football Confederation when they hosted the tournament in 2006 in Adelaide where they finished runners-up to China PR following a penalty shootout.

Fourth in the 2008 edition in Vietnam, Australia etched their names in the history books with a triumphant campaign in Chengdu in 2010.

Despite a defeat against Korea Republic, victories over Vietnam and China PR saw them advancing to the knockout stage as the Group B runners-up.

Australia bested Japan 1-0 in the semi finals to set up a title showdown with DPR Korea - which witnessed a 16-year-old Sam Kerr opening the score in a tie that ended 1-1, with the Matildas emerging champions with a 5-4 win on penalties.

Australia fell just short in the next two editions - losing 1-0 to Japan in the 2014 and 2018 finals while their 2022 campaign was ended in the quarter finals by Korea Republic.

They will head into the 2026 Finals with a blend of experienced and rising stars, with former Lyon, Arsenal and Juventus tactician Joe Montemurro appointed head coach recently.

The 55-year-old tactician is relishing the challenge of guiding the Matildas, with the fans expecting a title run.

 “It’s a great honour to lead your team at a home tournament and we saw what the Australian public brought to the World Cup and the impact that had.

“Tournaments like this play a big role, not just in performance, but in growing the game, bringing in new fans and inspiring young girls to play football. We hope to continue that legacy.”

Already gifted with a talented squad, Sam Kerr and mary Fowler's return to action after long injury lay-offs is a further boost to Montemurro.

Kerr won the Top Scorer award at India 2022 and added to the other players Montemurro, Australia can harbour hopes of regaining the title they won in 2010 - this time in front of their adoring fans.

Photos: AFC/AFP