In November 1944, Matthews was promoted to major general and appointed GOC 2nd Canadian Infantry Division, bringing it back to high operational efficiency after its gruelling battles on the Scheldt. The Division took part in the Rhineland battles (Operations "Veritable" and "Blockbuster") battles in February and March 1945. The Division advanced from Kalkar, through the Hochwald and Xanten to Wesel, narrowly failing to prevent the demolition of the Rhine bridges by the retreating Germans.