Thousands of punters have flocked to Optus Stadium, eagerly waiting for the Matildas’ Olympics qualifier against the Philippines on Sunday.
But massive queues at the gates to get in delayed some fans with some fearing they might miss the kick-off.
The stadium grounds were full of green and gold as punters got ready for the game with face painting, while merchandise lines were packed.
Young Perth fans were especially excited a game had come to their city, with Rufus, 12, saying his love for the Matildas began at the World Cup this year.
“I’m excited for the goals,” he said. “I grew up watching the World Cup, mostly the men’s but now the national pride for women is so good.
“My favourite is Sam Kerr, it’s so exciting a game is here, it doesn’t happen a lot.”
Danielle Durrant, Brooke Elliott and Julia Yhe said when they found out the Matildas were coming to Perth, they had no problem getting tickets to all three games.
Ms Elliott said it was special for her as she had been watching the Matildas since she was eight years old.
“I’m an avid Matildas fan, it’s a pretty big deal that they’re playing in Perth,” Ms Elliott said.
“I think they’ll score five goals,” she said.
Ms Durrant said she was looking forward to phenomenal goals.
“The iconic screamers in the World Cup, I don’t think it gets better than that,” she said.
Harper Santich, 6, said she loved the Matildas, Sam Kerr especially.
“Super excited for today,” she said. “I hope to start playing soccer soon.”
Jocelyn Boadi, an avid Matildas fan, said she was looking forward to seeing the team’s top-tier goal-scoring.
“I’ve been so inspired by women’s sports after the World Cup and I’m so excited the game is here, it’s so cool it’s the Olympic qualifiers,” she said.
“The fact that all the seats have sold out, so glad to be a part of it.”
Ms Boadi said she was backing the Australians to win.
“No offence to the Philippines,” she said. “I especially want to see Mary Fowler score.”
Longtime supporter Grant Williams, said he was expecting a win for the Matildas too.
“I’ve always followed the Matildas,” he said.
“The last game there were only 8000 people, so it’s amazing to see the turnout today.
“I’d love to see plenty of goals, especially another Sam Kerr goal.
“I think Australia is going to win. The Philippines were looking good from the last game but I think our girls have got it.”
Sunday’s sellout against the Philippines is the second of three Olympic qualifiers being played in Perth.
The Matildas beat Iran 2-0 on Thursday night, and will take on Chinese Taipei on Wednesday night at HBF Park.