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Published 27 July 2023 3 min read
England Women's Senior Team

Fan diary: A full week 'down under'

Written by:

Debra Nelson

Lionesses fan Debra Nelson writes her first diary piece since arriving in Australia for the FIFA Women's World Cup

What a week it has been!

I have officially completed a full week 'down under' and I’ve never spent so much time in the air in my life so I’m dreading the journey home. But two ten-hour flights and multiple time zones later, I've finally adjusted to Aussie life.

Everyone warned me about the jet lag (which I’ve only just overcome), but everyone forgot to mention the fact that Australian winter is REAL! The sunsets are incredible but as soon as 5 o’clock hits, I’ve been running for my coat.

Being based in Sydney has been amazing, I’ve been cycling through the city witnessing everything it has to offer from the beautiful beaches to the incredible stadiums.

Visiting the Sydney Opera House and above, the famous Harbour Bridge
Visiting the Sydney Opera House and above, the famous Harbour Bridge
The Sydney Football Stadium has been my favourite so far and the Brisbane Stadium is a close second.

Just before the England versus Haiti game, there was an incredible sunset just behind the stadium providing a world class Insta-worthy picture.

I’ve been living and breathing football, breakfast, lunch and dinner and there's been so many games it’s great. So far. I’ve been to four games and watched lots of games at fan zones with friends.

With the tournament being across both Australia and New Zealand, it’s been great watching the New Zealand games with fans that haven’t been able to make it across.
A beautiful sunset at the Brisbane Stadium
A beautiful sunset at the Brisbane Stadium
I’ve been following the Lionesses throughout my teenage years and I remember doing PE homework on players such as Rachel Yankey, Fara Williams and Alex Scott.

My relationship with the game has been super exciting and before coming out to Australia and New Zealand for this tournament, one of my favourite memories was travelling to France to watch the Lionesses compete in the 2019 Women’s World Cup which was my first time attending a major tournament.

I can’t wait to continue following the Lionesses on this journey!

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