Star forward Caitlin Foord says the Cup of Nations will provide the Matildas with a perfect dress rehearsal for the intensity of back-to-back games at this year's World Cup.

Tony Gustavsson's side kick off their campaign on Thursday against the Czech Republic, before games with Spain and Jamaica in the following six days.

The tournament is designed to mirror their World Cup group stage, with the aim of preparing them for a heavy run of games before the knockout stage.

Australia lost their first knockout games at the 2019 World Cup and the 2022 Asian Cup.

Foord said the side's experience of playing back-to-back fixtures in Europe would also stand them in good stead.

"In the past, that's kind of something that we've struggled with when we go deep into the tournament - our bodies weren't ready and we've picked up injuries," she said.

"Most of us being here in Europe and playing games is definitely going to help us leading into the World Cup and when we go deep into the tournament."

Arsenal forward Foord admits this month's tournament will be a taster for the expectation they will encounter when the World Cup, co-hosted by New Zealand, kicks off in July.

"Off the back of our success in recent years, there's a bit more pressure on us," she said.

"It's taken away that underdog tag a little bit.

"Being the home nation and playing on home soil, obviously the expectation is there.

"What's most important for us is to just stay focused on what our goal is and not be distracted by the outside noise."

The Matildas had an up-and-down 2022 campaign but finished the year on a high with Foord scoring twice in their 4-0 thrashing of world No. 3 Sweden.

"This is where the prep starts and it's getting down to the pointy end," she aded.

"So it's going to come around so quick. I'm excited to get back in and start working on preparing for the World Cup."