When Matildas coach Alen Stajcic boldly stated "We want to win the World Cup" earlier this week, he might have been greeted with a few wry smiles. But after his side beat the US on home soil before cruising past Japan and following that with a 6-1 demolition of Brazil on Friday morning, the doubters have become believers and the question has changed from "really?" to "why can't we?"

The Matildas have long been the darlings of Australian football and this week they showed they could be so much more. Their whitewash of the Tournament of Nations delivered them another trophy, drew plaudits from around the world and strengthened their claim as Australia's most successful national team.

Record breaker: Lisa De Vanna celebrates during Australia's win over Brazil. Credit:AP

It was as much a display of character as it was of an emerging force in the women's game. Goalkeeper Lydia Williams was inspirational with her heroics against the US. Midfielders Katrina Gorry, Emily Van Egmond and Elise Kellond-Knight were typically ruthless and classy. A new leader flourished once more in defender Steph Catley while girls around the country will now be playing for their local clubs on Saturday morning trying to emulate four-goal hero Sam Kerr.

Yet again, the Matildas hit every KPI. But if they're to take the next step forward, they'll need Football Federation Australia's marketing team to do the same.