THE Matildas are set to play blockbuster friendlies against European powerhouses France and England in Europe this October.

The friendlies would be part of Australia’s preparation for the 2019 Women’s World Cup.

The French Football Federation confirmed on Friday night that France would play Australia in Saint-Etienne on October 5. France will also play games against Cameroon in Grenoble on October 9 and Brazil in Nice on November 10.

As the host nation, France automatically qualified for next year’s World Cup.

Meanwhile, foxsports.com.au understands the Matildas will also play England when they travel to Europe in October.

England secured qualification overnight by beating Wales and securing top spot in its UEFA qualification group.

The Lionesses are also set to face Brazil in that window.

Both games shape as a rare opportunity for Australia to test itself against European opposition.

France is currently ranked third in the FIFA Women’s World Rankings, with England ranked fourth.

England received a bronze medal at the 2015 Women’s World Cup, losing to Japan in the semi-finals, while France was knocked out in the quarter-finals by Germany.

The Matildas have hit a strong recent run of form.

After finishing runner-up to Japan in the Asian Cup, Alen Stajcic’s side just missed out on claiming back-to-back Tournament of Nations wins.

That tournament included a draw with defending world champions the USA and wins over Japan and Brazil.

Australia secured qualification to next year’s World Cup through its progress at the Asian Cup.