FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023: England vs Haiti – Brisbane, Australia
During my trip to Australia, my timing happened to align perfectly with the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023. Curious to see if I could fit a match into my itinerary, I checked the official schedule and quickly realized that one of the group-stage games would take place while I was in Brisbane. Even better, tickets were still available and surprisingly affordable. I didn’t hesitate long before purchasing one directly from FIFA’s website, knowing this would be a rare opportunity to experience a World Cup match in person.
I left my hotel around 6 p.m. and walked toward Suncorp Stadium as the evening cooled slightly. The closer I got, the larger the crowds became, and the energy was unmistakable. Fans dressed in jerseys, scarves, and face paint filled the streets, and you could feel the collective excitement building with every step. Outside the stadium, fan zones had been set up with activities, merchandise stalls, and food vendors. I took my time walking through the area, soaking in the atmosphere before making my way toward the entrance gates.
Once inside the stadium, I navigated through the concourse to find my seating section. Before heading to my seat, I stopped by a nearby souvenir shop and picked up two keychains to commemorate the night. I also grabbed food and drinks, then settled in early to enjoy the view. With plenty of time before kickoff, I took photos of the stadium and the slowly filling stands while enjoying my meal.
As more fans arrived, the atmosphere inside Suncorp Stadium continued to build. The match began with the national anthems of England and Haiti, followed by an eruption of cheers as kickoff finally arrived. Throughout the game, the crowd was fully engaged—chants echoed across the stands, and several sections successfully coordinated stadium-wide waves, which I happily joined when it reached my row.
At halftime, the stadium lights transformed for a special lighting display, and attendance numbers were shared on the big screen. The Jumbotron scanned the crowd, highlighting fans in especially elaborate outfits, drawing cheers and laughter from the stands. It was the perfect time to top up on food and drinks before the second half began.
The match concluded with England securing a 1–0 victory. Leaving the stadium, I was still buzzing with excitement, and even after returning to my hotel, it took a while for the adrenaline to wear off. Attending a World Cup match—especially one with such an electric atmosphere—was easily one of the highlights of my time in Brisbane and an experience I won’t soon forget.
Background
The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 marked a historic moment for women’s football, as it was the first time the tournament was co-hosted by two countries: Australia and New Zealand. The competition showcased the continued growth of the women’s game, with record-breaking attendance, global viewership, and increased visibility for players and teams from around the world.
Suncorp Stadium, located in Brisbane, served as one of the key venues for the tournament. Known for its steep seating and excellent sightlines, the stadium is widely regarded as one of Australia’s best places to watch live sport. Hosting World Cup matches further cemented its reputation as a premier venue capable of delivering an unforgettable fan experience.
Getting There
Staying in central Brisbane made getting to Suncorp Stadium straightforward and enjoyable. I chose to walk from my hotel, following well-lit streets that gradually filled with other fans heading in the same direction. The route was clearly marked, and the pre-game crowd made it easy to follow without needing maps or transit. For those staying farther away, Brisbane’s public transport network—including trains and buses—provides convenient access to the stadium, with services running frequently on match days.
Route Overview
Distance: 2.56 km out & back (Soho Brisbane Hotel)
Duration: 38 min
Difficulty: Easy
Cost Breakdown
Ticket: FIFA Women’s World Cup Eng v HAI — AU$30
Food: AU$22.15
Souvenir: AU$27
