Ahead of the CommBank Matildas’ big clash against China PR at Accor Stadium on 3 June, players Ellie Carpenter, Cortnee Vine and Clare Hunt tell us what they love about a trip to the city and why Sydney is the home of football.

You’ll be coming to Sydney in June for your first Matildas game since the FIFA Women’s World Cup last year – what is your favourite thing about playing in Sydney?

Ellie Carpenter: "It’s always the best playing in Sydney because the local crowd always turn up for us. In Sydney, we get the best crowds, the most people, and because it’s so diverse and multicultural it really feels like a true Aussie crowd."

Cortnee Vine: "My favourite thing about playing in Sydney is the number of fans we get. Sydney really turned out for us during the Women’s World Cup and we can’t wait to play there again."

Clare Hunt: "Sydney is great to play at because I get to do it in front of family and friends, and it’s so great to get to feel their support."  

What are your must-do experiences you'd recommend to people visiting Sydney?

Ellie Carpenter: "I love going to Balmoral Beach. It's my favourite beach in the city area; I just love getting to Balmoral when I can and enjoying the calmness of it. I would also definitely recommend the BridgeClimb on Sydney Harbour Bridge. I did it with my brother a year and a half ago and it was really cool. You sometimes forget how pretty Sydney is and the climb gives you the best views."

Cortnee Vine: "Milsons Point in North Sydney at sunset is a gorgeous spot to enjoy. I also love checking out the Glebe Markets. It’s always cool to walk around and explore and there are so many different things on display and to buy. Outside of the city, I would say the Blue Mountains is a must-visit with the absolutely stunning scenery!"

Clare Hunt: "Taking the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly at sunset gives beautiful views of Sydney. I love visiting King Street in Newtown – there are so many dining options and flavours from all around the world. It’s a great example of how multicultural Sydney is."

Where is your favourite place to eat in Sydney?  

Ellie Carpenter: "I know it was named the world’s most Instagrammed restaurant, but The Grounds of Alexandria is a really great spot to eat. The food is delicious, and the garden, farm and entertainment displays are just as good."

Cortnee Vine: "Salumerie in Potts Point has the best sandwiches!"    

Clare Hunt: "Pilu at Freshwater. It’s a beautiful restaurant at my favourite beach."

You've played all over the city for World Cup and A-League games – what’s your favourite sports venue to play at in Sydney?  

Ellie Carpenter: "I would have to say Accor Stadium. It’s the biggest stadium in New South Wales and we have so many amazing memories there. We had our opening Women’s World Cup match there and the atmosphere was indescribable. It also has so much history with not just football but all sports. I love going there to be a part of its history."   

Cortnee Vine: "There are so many great ones! Allianz Stadium has a lot of great memories for me and is such a beautiful stadium. I’ve loved playing there whether with Sydney FC or with the Matildas."

Clare Hunt: "Accor Stadium. There are so many fond memories of the opening match of the Women’s World Cup from there. To have a full capacity crowd and to be able to play my first Women’s World Cup match in front of friends and family there was incredible."  

What is your number one must-do thing in Sydney?

Ellie Carpenter: "Go to Taronga Zoo so you can see the native Australian animals. The work that the staff put into the exhibits makes it a lovely day out for family or anyone visiting. It’s also really cool because you can get a great view of the city from the zoo, with a different outlook."

Cortnee Vine: "Sydney has great food so I think trying what’s on offer is essential. I love the Newtown area: get dumplings at Chinese Dumpling Master on Enmore Road or a burger from Mary’s off of King Street, and follow it up with a movie at Dendy Cinemas. You won’t regret it!"   

Clare Hunt: "I really enjoy snorkelling at Shelly Beach near Manly, which has a protected marine reserve and lots of colourful sea life."

Where is your favourite holiday destination in NSW?  

Ellie Carpenter: "Being from the country, I have visited lots of small towns around the Cowra area. While I don’t have one specific holiday destination, I would say just take the time to visit some of the lovely country towns in the Central West region (like Bathurst, Orange, Parkes) as they have some interesting history and stories to explore."   

Cortnee Vine: "Favourite holiday destination would have to be Newcastle! I absolutely love the beaches and the overall vibe there. I was also lucky enough to live there for a couple of years so got to experience everything it offers daily. I still love going back when I get the chance."   

Clare Hunt: "Byron Bay is a great destination. The combination of its beach culture, fun dining spots and beautiful nature makes it a special place for a holiday."

Ellie, you grew up in Cowra, and Clare, you grew up in Grenfell – both in the Central West region. What would you recommend visitors to your hometowns do while they are in the region?

Ellie Carpenter: "I would say go to the Cowra Japanese Garden. It’s a cool place to visit and quite historical. I used to go there as a kid and the was always something beautiful happening. There are different styles of gardens to explore, and the World War II connection between Cowra and Japan is very interesting."

Clare Hunt: "Grenfell is located right near the Weddin Mountains so I would recommend going for a hike in Weddin Mountains National Park. There are some beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, and walks for all fitness levels."