18 Feb Ante Milicic to lead Matildas at World Cup

The Matildas have secured former Socceroos assistant coach Ante Milicic ahead of the World Cup in France.

Milicic replaces sacked coach Alen Stajcic after a turbulent month.

He has received a five-month deal which enables him to coach the Matildas until the end of the World Cup.

Milicic is set to begin the role as soon as he arrives in Australia today.

“It is an honour to be appointed Head Coach of the Westfield Matildas and I am determined to make the most of this opportunity together with the squad and staff,” Milicic said.

“As demonstrated throughout the Westfield W-League this season, which culminated in Saturday’s thrilling Grand Final in Sydney, Australia has many fantastic players right now and I know that the squad that is ultimately selected will be eager to seize its chance in France.

“With three matches coming up in quick succession at the Cup of Nations, the friendly tournament will provide our group with the opportunity to set its standards both on and off the pitch as we look ahead to the FIFA Women’s World Cup with great belief and optimism.”

Milicic edged out former Matildas assistant Ross Aloisi, Melbourne Victory’s Jeff Hopkins and experienced Dutch coach Vera Pauw for the job.

He will oversee his fist three matches with the Matildas in the inaugural Cup of Nations in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne from February 28.

The Matildas open their World Cup account against Italy on June 9.