WATCH: The FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup is underway in Edmonton. Tom Vernon has more.
EDMONTON – Some of the best female soccer players in the world are in Edmonton for the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, which kicked off on Tuesday.
Venue GM Trisa Zimmerman says it has been a long couple of weeks turning Commonwealth Stadium into a FIFA soccer venue. Now, that the work is done, she says the feedback has been very positive.
“The teams are very excited by the environment they’re going to be in, they’ve all done their official training now, so they’ve all had their opportunity to be on the pitch, be in the stadium, and I think we’re going to see some awesome soccer,” Zimmerman said.
Team USA, who will play two group stage games in Edmonton, certainly seemed impressed.
“It was gorgeous, it was absolutely gorgeous, and the girls loved the colour of the seats especially,” gushed head coach Michelle French.
“It was stunning,” added Andi Sullivan. “The field was amazing, the stands are beautiful, obviously the weather here in Edmonton is perfect for playing.”
This isn’t the first time this tournament has been held here. In 2002, Team Canada, led by Christine Sinclair, finished in second place, losing to the Americans in the final in front of more than 47,000 fans. It was a game widely viewed as a turning point for women’s soccer.
“Definitely the level of international soccer for women has increased since 2002,” said Zimmerman. “And I think Edmonton can take claim for this..it basically sky-rocketed women’s soccer onto the world stage.”
You can find more information about the event here.
With files from Tom Vernon, Global News
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