Role models: how the Matildas have ‘turbocharged’ girls’ football in Australia

Gladesville Ravens players Mariella Zaiter, Koyori Burgoyne, Helena Turner at ELS park in North Ryde, NSW. The Matildas’ success at the Women’s World Cup has fuelled football’s popularity among girls in Australia. Photograph: Blake Sharp-Wiggins/The Guardian

Usually netball and gymnastics fanatics, Koyori Burgoyne’s friends are suddenly very into football.

On a chilly weeknight in Sydney’s lower north shore, Burgoyne’s football side, the Gladesville Ravens under-11s, are on the training track. There is an excitement bubbling away, not only because the Ravens have a match this weekend, but because the Matildas are taking on France.