The Matildas’ opening match against Ireland in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 was a massive success, attracting 4.88 million viewers across the Seven Network. The tense game, which ended with a 1-0 victory for the Matildas in front of a sold-out crowd of 76,000 at Stadium Australia, saw an average audience of 1.93 million viewers. This included 1.74 million national broadcast viewers on Seven, with an additional 184,000 viewers on 7plus.
The game reached its peak viewership at 2.28 million, dominating its broadcast timeslot and achieving high commercial audience shares across various demographics. With a 47.6% share in total people, 53.9% in the 25 to 54 age group, and 57.8% in the 16 to 39 age group, the match truly captivated audiences.
Lewis Martin, Seven’s head of network sport and managing director of Seven Melbourne, expressed his delight at the successful viewership numbers for the Matildas’ opening match. He acknowledged the significance of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 as one of the biggest global sporting events of the year and the most-attended standalone women’s sporting event in history. Martin emphasized Seven’s role in bringing key matches live and free to all of Australia.
Additionally, 7NEWS.com.au has established a dedicated FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 hub, offering breaking news, live match statistics, match scheduling, and broadcast information for fans to stay updated.
Over the next few weeks, Seven and 7plus will showcase 15 key matches in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, including the two opening day matches, two Quarterfinals, both Semi-Finals, the Final, and every Matildas game. The coverage will be hosted by 7SPORT anchor Mel McLaughlin and legendary commentator Bruce McAvaney.
Highlighted matches for this week’s lineup on Seven and 7plus include Canada vs. Ireland on Wednesday, July 26 at 8:00 pm AEST, and Australia vs. Nigeria on Thursday, July 27 at 8:00 pm AEST.
In conclusion, the Matildas’ opening match in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 garnered impressive viewership numbers, indicating the growing interest and support for women’s sports in Australia. The article presents the news in a concise and informative manner, adhering to the guidelines provided.