Arrival in Nara: Matildas welcomed in Japan

With only couple of days to go until the Matildas face Japan in their final warm up game, the team has arrived in the Japanese city of Nara to prepare. 

The city and its people have welcomed the Australian team with open arms, from banners and well-wishes in the hotel and at training.

Nara is a place much of the team will be familiar with after they spent time there preparing for the AFC Women's Olympic Qualifiers back in 2016.  Nara is also the sister city of Canberra, with the relationship established back in October 1993.  

“Thank you to the Matildas for coming to Nara again. We remember the last time you came here, five years ago and we’re so happy to have you here again.” said the Deputy Mayor of Nara. 

Speaking for the team, Matildas captain Sam Kerr offered a gift to the city to show their gratitude.

“On behalf of the Matildas I’d like to say thank you for welcoming us to your beautiful city. We love Japan, we feel so welcome every time we come here. The people are so nice and welcoming." said Kerr. 

"And to show our appreciation for having us we want to present you with this jersey and hopefully Australia wins gold and Japan wins silver." 

The Matildas play Japan on July 14 at 8:20 pm AEST. Australia then begin its Olympic campaign against New Zealand on July 21.