USWNT friendlies vs. Australia "in doubt" as Matildas go on strike

As reported by The Womens Game, the Australian women's national team has gone on strike as part of a dispute with Football Federation Australia over a new collective bargaining agreement.

The players allege they have not been paid for the past two months and are refusing to attend camp in preparation for their two-game series with the United States, scheduled to be played September 17 and 20 in Detroit and Birmingham respectively. Players are also demanding better air travel, accommodation, and benefits.

In an official statement, the FFA said that the status of the games is "in doubt."

Meanwhile players from other nations, including the United States, tweeted their support of the Matildas.

The women's game continues to grow. https://t.co/kmNdFJAG8h

— Alex Morgan (@alexmorgan13) September 8, 2015

#protecttheplayers https://t.co/TflyO9pTno

— Jodie Taylor (@Jodes_14) September 8, 2015

Fight for your rights Maltildas. #respect #support https://t.co/bXFkZraD0j

— Nadine Angerer (@NAngerer) September 8, 2015

In a worst case scenario, games would get cancelled and refunds issued. US Soccer could also possibly find a replacement team who could play on short notice -- perhaps a CONCACAF team like Canada or Mexico. Many Canadian players are already in the United States finishing out the NWSL season with their clubs and the two federations presumably have a close enough working relationship to plan something last minute.

If the games are cancelled, USSF will probably reschedule them some time in the November-January period between the last announced friendly and the beginning of 2016 Olympic qualifying, which takes place February 10-21.