Soccer fans may be known for chanting in unison, but the ones in Edmonton are turning their skills to counting backwards. That's because the countdown is on for the FIFA Women's World Cup which is now less than 100 days away.

Mayor Don Iveson joined soccer fans and FIFA organizers at City Hall Thursday to show their support for country-wide tournament that begins in Edmonton as Canada hosts China in the first game June 6.

"This is really exciting, this is going to be an incredible opportunity for us to showcase the hospitality of Edmontonians, the enthusiasm we have for all amateur sports and all sports, really, but especially for Canada's female soccer players," said Iveson, who admitted to playing the game himself when he was young and winning a city championship in what he referred to as "the (root) beer league for kids."

"It's an opportunity for some of our young players to have a chance to see some of the world's best right here in our own city," he said.

Edmonton will host more games than any other Canadian city, prompting preparations to Commonwealth Stadium including added seating and resurfacing of the field.

Edmonton fans will have the chance to watch New Zealand, Holland, Switzerland, Cameroon, Australia and Sweden, as well as two round of 16 matches, a quarter final, semi-final and bronze medal matches. Bunches of tickets have been on sale with 550,000 sold nationally so far. Now single tickets are available as well.

The games aren't just bringing fans to the city, though. A projected $59 million in economic impact is expected for Edmonton with the Alberta total expected to be closer to $80 million.

david.lazzarino@sunmedia.ca

@SUNDaveLazz