Matikainen successfully coached the Finland U–17 and U–19 teams and was assistant coach of the senior team which reached the UEFA Women's Euro 2005 semi-final. In August 2010 it was announced that Matikainen was to take over as Wales' first ever full-time head of national teams on 4 October 2010. As well as overseeing the senior team's UEFA Women's Euro 2013 qualifying campaign, Matikainen assumed direct responsibility for the U–17 and U–19 teams. The holder of a UEFA Pro Licence, Matikainen was also tasked by the Football Association of Wales with helping to develop an overall strategy for women's football in Wales.