West Coast Eagles great Nic Naitanui has swapped the Sherrin for a round ball — throwing his support behind the Matildas as Perth gears up to host the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 next week.

“As father of a young daughter and a friend of Sam Kerr, why wouldn’t I be backing an international tournament like this,” Naitanui said.

“I’ll be there next weekend to cheer on the Tillies at Perth Stadium for the opening match, and I’m looking forward to seeing everyone else get behind the opening ceremony and the rest of the matches.”

The March 1 kick-off will mark the first time an Asian Cup tournament has been staged in Australia — however Perth has hosted plenty of top level women’s football with five World Cup games played at HBF Park in 2023.

To mark the occasion, the retired Eagles ruckman climbed Optus Stadium’s rooftop, also known as ‘The Ozone’ with the Asian Cup trophy.

Standing 42 metres above the ground, Naitanui said it was the perfect way to showcase his home city.

“I’ve never done it before, and what an incredible way to show off Perth,” he said.

“There’s no better view of our city . . . this is something everyone should do.”

As part of a national Trophy Road Trip, the Women’s Asian Cup trophy is being paraded around communities across Western Australia.

Chief Operating Officer of the local organising committee, Sarah Walsh said it was important to spread the word.

“It’s incredibly special . . . visiting communities across Western Australia ensures everyone can share in the excitement,” she said.

“This is a major moment on the state’s sporting calendar.

“Bringing the trophy to the rooftop today shows the countdown is well and truly on, and we are ready to deliver an extraordinary opening night and excellent tournament.”