© Unsplash

Historical Success and Future Expectations for Women's Football

The Women's World Cup is currently in full swing in Australia and New Zealand, just under nine months after the Men's World Cup took place. The titanic clash between Argentina and France, featuring Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé in the lead roles.

Despite the global growth of women's football, the coverage and sponsorship for this tournament appear to be more limited compared to the men's World Cup. The prize money for the women's tournament lags behind the men's: 9 million euros versus 37 million euros. Advertisements and special campaigns are scarcer. Unfavorable match timings and holiday periods are cited as possible reasons, although the prize money has nearly doubled compared to the previous Women's World Cup.

Nevertheless, there are positive signs. Despite fewer viewers than the men's tournament, records have been broken in terms of ticket sales and viewership. The Women's World Cup is being enthusiastically followed in Australia and New Zealand. The success of the 'Matildas,' the Australian national team, has generated a true frenzy. The quarterfinal match between the Matildas and France set a viewership record of over 5 million, making it the largest-ever sports event for women. This figure even surpasses viewership numbers for finals in popular sports like rugby and cricket. The quarterfinal match between Australia and England at Stadium Australia was attended by 83.500 spectators, setting another record.

The significant impact of this World Cup cannot be underestimated. Women's football is receiving more attention than ever before and is reaching a broader audience. The image of women's football as positive, likable, and harmonious, compared to the sometimes tumultuous men's football, contributes to the growing interest. While the viewership might not yet match that of the men's, the realization is dawning that women's football is an exciting and meaningful sport.

As we look forward to the Women's World Cup final scheduled for August 20th, England is gearing up to reach the final for the first time in the history of women's football. The opponent is the strong team of Spain. The historic rise of women's football on the global stage has created high expectations for this final.

All in all, this Women's World Cup proves that interest in women's football is steadily growing, with an expanding fanbase and significant viewership. It has not only drawn attention to the sport but also bolstered the image of women's football and promoted equality in the world of sports. The upcoming final promises to be an exciting culmination of a tournament that marks a milestone for women's football.

Sources: RTL Nieuws, NOS, Sporza