Australia plays France in Melbourne as the final warm-up game

Australian star Sam Kerr and the Matildas will round out their preparations for this year’s home World Cup with a clash against European giants France in Melbourne.

The game was confirmed on Tuesday morning, with Matilda’s coach Tony Gustavsson declaring the clash with world No. 5 team the perfect way for his side to ‘call in’ for the World Cup.

The game, to be played at Marvel Stadium on June 14, is the Matildas’ last international match before their opener against Ireland on July 20.

“Playing the farewell game against a side of the caliber of France in a special city like Melbourne is a wonderful opportunity for us to gain an early understanding of the importance of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023,” said Gustavsson.

“A dynamic, technically brilliant team, France have consistently been one of the best nations in the world over the years with incredible quality in all areas of their game. Just a few days before our World Cup kick-off, it will be one last challenge for us.

“This farewell game is an essential conclusion to our two-year preparation for this tournament on home soil.

“Playing a great nation and a World Cup contender in front of a large and raucous crowd in Melbourne will not only give the team a farewell to remember and be inspired by, it will give us one last taste of it give what awaits us in a few days later in our opening game against the Republic of Ireland.”

The Matildas have enjoyed a successful Cup of Nations campaign that has included victories over Spain, Jamaica and the Czech Republic.