A group of death-defying daredevil motorbike riders have scuttled plans to bring the Matildas to Canberra in November as soccer chiefs seek a long-term deal to bring games to the city.
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Football Federation Australia officials had been exploring the possibility of hosting a Matildas game at Canberra Stadium on November 12.
But the pitch would not be ready in time given the Crusty Demons' 'Rise of the Demons' world tour will have rolled into town three days prior.
Now FFA officials are searching for another date for the Matildas to play in the capital as part of a $24.5 million agreement with the ACT government and Capital Football.
The Matildas and junior national teams will then follow before Capital Football's new base is completed in Throsby in what FFA officials hope is the first step in a long-term deal with ACT power brokers.
"That's what we've been working towards," FFA head of national performance Luke Casserly said.
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"We will definitely be having more games down here. That's really important for us, to have our national teams around the country and not just in one or two places, to connect with the community."
Casserly joined ACT Minister for Sport and Recreation Yvette Berry and former Socceroos captain Matt McKay in Canberra to spruik the national men's side's return to the capital on Monday.
McKay led the Socceroos during their last match in Canberra in 2015 and has backed coach Graham Arnold to pick a full-strength side boasting ACT export Tom Rogic.
The Socceroos needed all of two play-offs and a record 22 matches to qualify for last year's World Cup in Russia - more than any other nation.
Their desperation to avoid a similar scenario makes it imperative for the Socceroos to get off to a flyer in Kuwait before returning home to Canberra for their second qualifier.
"Everyone wants to see Tom Rogic back in Canberra, so it is important we get back here and get a good result," McKay said.
"I challenge the people of Canberra to come and sell out the stadium, and show what football means in Canberra. I'm sure they will.
"Knowing Arnie, I think he will select the best team every single game that is available.
"I think the full squad will be out here, they need the result, they need to make a statement throughout this first stage of qualifying."
Berry dubbed the prospect of more matches in the future a "great opportunity" for the Canberra community.
Caden Helmers
Caden Helmers is a sports writer for The Canberra Times.
Caden Helmers is a sports writer for The Canberra Times.
