The purple jersey of Matildas goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold sold out within minutes of going on sale on Tuesday, as fans rushed to secure the sought-after merchandise.
The Nike jersey went on sale through the Football Australia website and sold out quickly in both men’s and women’s sizes. People on social media reported the merchandise had sold out within five minutes of going live.
During the FIFA Women’s World Cup last year, Arnold quickly rose to prominence as a fan favourite as a result of her epic performance in front of the goals. Fans were upset when they realised they were not able to purchase her iconic No.18 Matildas kit, as they could with other players.
Nike and Football Australia committed to ensuring the goalkeeper jersey would be available before the Matildas’ next major tournament.
In good news for fans attending the Matildas game tonight, there will be stock of Arnold’s jersey available at Marvel Stadium as the Australians take on Uzbekistan in an Olympic qualifier. Stock is also available at retail stores Rebel Sports and Ultra Football.
“When I was a young athlete, the idea that I could make a living as a goalkeeper never really crossed my mind. It’s a testament to how far our game has come that the next generation of keepers will now see fans wearing our jerseys in the stands,” Arnold said when it was announced her kit would be available for fans.
“The support we as goalkeepers have felt from our fans over the last year has been absolutely incredible.
“It means so much to me that we’ll head into another huge year for our team, and our sport, knowing that our families, friends and fans will be backing us all the way, and wearing our jerseys with pride.”
The jerseys of the broader Matildas goalkeeper squad, including Teagan Micah, Lydia Williams and Jada Mathyssen-Whyman are also available to purchase.
James Johnson, CEO of Football Australia, said what we witnessed at last year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup changed Australian sport forever and the demand for goalkeeper jerseys reflected that.
“We are delighted to work with our long-term apparel partner, Nike, in making available for fans the now iconic purple CommBank Matildas’ goalkeeper jersey as worn by our goalkeeping cohort during last year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup and during the current Olympic Qualifying campaign,” he said.