Soccer isn’t the national pastime in Australia or New Zealand, but those visiting during the Women’s World Cup wouldn’t be able to tell. The tournament co-hosts have risen to the occasion, rolling out the red carpet in anticipation of an influx of soccer fans. Brightly colored banners emblazoned with the tournament’s slogan wave in the chilly winter wind in major cities and signs plastered across airports show support for local teams. Bringing the tournament Down Under was intended as an effort to grow the women’s game, but the hosts are also hoping it’s the boost they need to re-energize the tourism industry after years of Covid restrictions, when both countries essentially closed their borders. James Johnson, CEO of Football Australia, said hosting the Women’s World Cup “was really seen as a way to welcome the world back to Australia and also New Zealand, as well.” “There was a point throughout the process leading into the Women’s World Cup where tourism became even more important because we wanted to show the world that although Australia was closed for the best part of two years, it was open for business,” Johnson told reporters on a call earlier this month.