The national women’s soccer team has gone straight to the people to raise awareness and support for closing the distinct pay gap between men and women in the sport.

In a now-viral and emotional video, the current Matildas line-up describe how the teams before set the drive for validation and respect, and how the World Cup is a celebration of that achievement.

Professional Footballers Australia co-Chief Executive Beau Busch told Julie-anne Sprague on 6PR Afternoons the Matildas have long been “at the forefront of the battle for gender equality.”

“If we look back at 2015, they went on strike to ensure they can earn a living wage; now the last frontier in relaiton to this is the FIFA prize money,” Mr Busch said.

Press PLAY to hear more on the Matildas’ push for FIFA recognition

Image: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images