Above: Alessia Russo (left) scoring her 30th England goal Photo: via @Lionesses.
England have picked up another crucial three points as they sit top of the qualifying group unbeaten after they narrowly beat Iceland 1-0 thanks to Alessia Russo’s first half goal and Hannah Hampton’s second-half goalkeeping heroics.
The Lionesses took the lead in the 21st minute through Russo. After a fantastic solo run from the edge of her own box, Lauren Hemp laid the ball off to Russo on the edge of the Iceland box. The latter spun and riffled a shot into the bottom left corner leaving Cecilia Runarsdottir no chance.
England ended the first half in full control as they had 70% possession.
After sustaining large amounts of Icelandic pressure, England get a good chance on goal. Russo cut the ball back to Georgia Stanway inside the box, but the 27-year-old could not keep the shot down.
In the 69th minute, substitute Beth Mead came close to doubling the Lionesses lead with a good header. However, Runarsdottir did brilliantly to get down quickly and parry the ball away from danger.
Iceland had their best chance of the game in the 79th minute. The hosts came milometers from scoring as they hit the post. Jessen struck the post; the ball bounced away from the goal and fell to Dilja Zomers. Her close-range shot was saved well by Hampton’s foot, and the subsequent ball was cleared by Niamh Charles.
Three minutes later, Hampton pulled off another amazing save. This time, Alexandra Johannsdottir received the ball at the back post. She had plenty of time to have a touch and get her shot away, but Hampton’s left leg was in the way.
There was a late scare for England as Iceland found themselves in behind via a long ball. Jessen got onto the end of it and managed to go round Hampton, who opted for a high starting position. However, once Jessen was round Hampton, she lost her footing and her shot was blocked by Wubben-Moy.
Above: Marissa Sheva (top) and Emily Murphy (bottom) celebrate after the former scored what turned out to be the match winning goal for the Girls in Green. Photo: via Ireland Football.
The Republic of Ireland have picked up another massive win in the context of their qualifying campaign for the 2027 World Cup, downing Poland 1-0 to beat the Poles for the second time within a week.
It was not the prettiest of performances, but making the most of one chance was all the Irish needed, and a fine goal from Marissa Sheva got the job done on the scoreboard.
The news was not all positive for the Republic of Ireland though, with both Emily Murphy and Denise O’Sullivan picking up a second yellow card for this campaign, therefore earning themselves a suspension for the next match of the campaign against the Netherlands.
It was a lot more even start to proceedings this afternoon than Tuesday’s match in Gdansk had been, with both sides getting some promising looks at goal in the opening minutes.
One thing that was clear though was that if the Irish were to make it two wins from two this window, they were going to have to work harder for more of the match in order to do so.
Ewa Pajor had the first close chance on goal, but ultimately went wide by the smallest of margins.
Murphy then went close up the other end moments later, but her shot bounced off the crossbar and away.
It was a free flowing first half, with a lot of end to end action but not many clear cut chances at goal.
Just as it was looking like the first half would be goalless, the Republic of Ireland struck with mere minutes left in the half.
A very well placed shot from Kyra Carusa was deflected by goal keeper Kinga Szemik, but the deflection bounced perfectly to Sheva on Szemik‘s blind side, and the lively Irish midfielder tapped the ball into the back of the net.
Sheva’s goal put the Irish on the front foot heading into half time, but that first half still gave both sides plenty to think about at the half time break.
The second half began in much the same way the first half had played out, but the home side did have significantly better chances than the visitors.
O’Sullivan went inches from doubling the Republic of Ireland’s lead about 10 minutes into the half, but like Murphy’s shot in the first half it too hit the crossbar.
The Irish continued to attack hard as the half progressed, but just could not find another goal, as close as they went on a number of occasions.
The Polish did have a few positive moments in their attacking third, but only had one moment that really challenged Courtney Brosnan in the Irish goal.
As regulation time ended and a very long eight minutes of stoppage time began, Poland perhaps sensed the urgency of the situation and began to really start to attack hard.
But no matter how hard the Polish attacked, a really strong defensive performance from the Irish kept the Polish at bay and ensured the Girls in Green gained maximum points from this international window.
Above:Claudia Mihocic. Bulleen Lions. Photo: Adrian Geremia
South Melbourne stage a resurgence in the standings, Bulleen’s winning streak continues and Box Hill Bounce back in Round 8 of the Victorian NPLW.
Friday night saw three games take place across Melbourne. Avondale FC travelled to face Preston Lions in an important game for both sides, with the home side needing to climb up the table, and the visitors seeking to make up ground with the top four.
Preston had plenty of early momentum, and Hollie Massey came close to opening the scoring. But her lunging effort narrowly missed contact with the low cross into the six yard box.
Charlotte Hrehoresin has been one of the Lions best players this season, and produced an excellent save to stop Sloane Young’s effort from 18 yards out. The home side looked like they had found a break through when Dragana Kljajic send her effort goal bound only to be denied by the woodwork.
Hannah Wilkson responded with a long range effort, but the two sides went into the break goalless.
Preston made it 1-0 in the 62nd minute. Valentine Pursey combined with Massey to put the English forward into the penalty box. Her shot across goal left Brooke Bennett with no chance.
To the frustration of the home side, Avondale found an equaliser just minutes later. Young was at the back post to tuck home Sidney Allen’s inswinging cross after Elise Kellond-Knight’s corner was only half cleared.
The result keeps Preston in the bottom three for now, and Avondale remain in mid table but only three points off fourth spot.
Keilor Park SC responded to a two-game losing streak with a close win away to Bentleigh Greens. Abby Holmes raced onto a long ball in the 16th minute to score for Keilor Park. She got as close to goal as possible before sliding the ball beyond the onrushing goalkeeper. In the wintery conditions, it was an excellent start.
Holmes made it 2-0 in the second half, bringing up her brace with another terrific finish. Bentleigh turned the ball over deep in defence and outnumbered, but Holmes made it memorable with a curling, chipped finish to double their lead.
Persistence paid off for the home side and they found a lifeline in the 70th minute. Madina Ali’s hold up play and pass on the turn presented Paige Clemenson with an opening, and she did not waste the chance. Putting the ball into the top corner from the angle.
Despite that boost, Bentleigh were unable to find an equaliser, and Keilor Park were able to hold on for their second win of the season.
In Friday’s final match, Box Hill United hosted the dangerous but slightly under-strength Spring Hills FC. The visitors were missing star forward Margaux Clarke and Box Hill were coming off a rare loss in Round Seven to Boroondara Eagles.
The home side were back to their best in this game. The reigning Champions’ passing game was in full effect as they patiently worked their way up the pitch to find Erin Keyt. With a feinted shot, and a quick change of direction, Keyt was in on goal and scored her eighth of the season.
An aggressive press created the second goal. Kiara Bercelli won the ball in attack and slipped the ball wide to Juri Kawano to finish as half time approached.
Keyt made it 3-0 early in the second half. Some good work in the wing by Bercelli and a fortunate bounce gave Keyt all the space she needed to lash home her second of the night.
Bercelli finally got on the scoresheet herself with a 76th minute goal to cap off an outstanding individual performance.
🚨🟣 SENOL NPLWVIC GOAL! 75:32: Box Hill United FC score to make it BHU 4 : SHFC 0.
It was the best of the lot. A rocket from distance and a considerable angle, that took everybody by surprise, and left the lunging Jenna Ibrahim with little chance of stopping it.
Box Hill climb back to second on the ladder with this win, although Boroondara have one game in hand after their match against Melbourne Victory was postponed.
On to Saturday’s games and South Melbourne were eager to build on their midweek win over Boroondara. A Grace Taranto goal was all that separated the teams on Wednesday and South would now have to contend with an always challenging Alamein FC.
It was the visitors who looked the most dangerous early. Alamein’s Summer Laskey was causing problems for the South Melbourne defence, but they could not find the breakthrough while they had momentum.
South eventually settled and were ever dangerous on the counter attack. When it seemed certain that first half would end goalless, Raquel Derales’s deft finish gave the home side the lead with seconds remaining.
Tyla Jay Vlajnic’s perfectly directed free kick gave South a second goal. McKaela Schmelzer met the ball at full pace and with a powerful leap and buried it into the back of the net.
Alamein goalkeeper Olivia Cowan was collateral damage in the goal, and was subbed out in the 64th minute.
Nikki Furukawa’s 85th minute strike sealed the result to give South Melbourne their second win in three days.
Kelli McGroarty was the star of the show as Essendon Royals defeated Melbourne City 5-1.
It took only four minutes for the home team to score the first goal. McGroarty stole the ball near half way and shot from distance for a spectacular opener.
Mikaela Jurcic’s long ball forward created the second goal. McGroarty still had plenty to do, and hit the ball with ferocity to beat Dali Gorr Burchmore at the near post.
City fought their way back in. Kaya Jugovic’s determined run down the wing ended with a cross that was laid back to Mary Brown. Her low, first time finish was swept into the bottom corner to make it 2-1.
McGroarty had her hatrick early in the second half. Bella Sewards and Bronte Peel combined to whip the ball in to the goal face, and the American striker met it at the n ear post to restore the Royals two goal lead.
A 64th minute penalty kick completed her day, and put the result beyond any remaining doubt. In this tightly contested season, that huge win takes Essendon to fifth, and hot on the tail of Alamein, who sit only a point ahead.
The final game of the weekend was between Heidelberg United and the visiting Bulleen Lions. This match carried a special meaning for both sides as the first Keely Lockhart Memorial Cup. The much loved and forever missed forward played for both sides in her career, and a moment was taken after the match for a trophy to be presented by the Lockhart family and for both clubs to remember her.
Bulleen continued their impressive winning streak which now extends to six matches. Maja Markovsi’s pass put Olivia Bomford into the penalty box, and her ball across the face of goal was tapped in by Tiff Eliadis for Bulleen’s opener.
Markovski made it 2-0 from the penalty spot just minutes later. The foul was disputed by Heidelberg, but Markovski’s finish left no doubt.
Heidelberg pulled one back before half time. A corner kick was not clared by Bulleen and Jiyoun Seo found the back of the net after two Warrior’s shots were blocked in the buildup.
The comeback was short lived though, and Markovski soon restored the two-goal cushion. Nia Salleh’s quick feet helped her cut inside and her pass into attack was cleverly dummied by Eliadis to present Markovski with a relatively easy finish.
In a mirrored effort of the opening goal, Eliadis turned provider for Bomford with a cutback from the opposite side of goal. Bomford sill had plenty to do to score and managed to get the shot away on the turn and underneath the onrushing Mia Bailey. 4-1.
Ashley Jordan scored Bulleen’s fifth and her first since returning to Australian football. She outmuscled her Heidelberg opponent to win possession and find space in the penalty box, and curled the ball into the top fasr corner.
Eliadis made it six with her second of the night. Claudia Mihocic started the move with a clever turn in the last line of defence, and Sarah Cain’s ball over the top found Eliadis in acres of room.
Her run eventually led her wide of the goal, but she was able to find the gap at the near post to finally end the scoring for the evening.
The result sees Bulleen rise to first place on the ladder. Although Boroondara have a game in hand and are only two points, behind, this has been a remarkable reversal of the first two rounds.
Box Hill are only second on goal difference, and Alamein will be hoping to return to winning ways in Round Nine, when the two teams clash at Dorothy Laver reserve.
In Appreciation of Sarah Cain
It is weird to say that Sarah Cain is underrated? She’s a former NPLW Gold Medallist with A-League Women experience and captaining the current league leaders, but it still feels like she flies under the radar.
Bulleen are not lacking for talent. Even without the explosive Alana Cortellino, they were still able to defeat Heidelberg 6-1. Tiffany Eliadis was dynamic and creative, Olivia Bomford has continued her excellent form since arriving from South Melbourne and Maja Markovski did what she usually does and found the back of the net.
But at the centre of everything is Cain. The Bulleen captain is constantly moving the ball forward, linking the defence and attack with quick decisions and an enviable passing range.
Cain does not hesitate on the ball, she picks the best option seemingly before she receives the ball, and repeatedly launches Bulleen into attack. The midfield general is also tough under physical pressure and has the pace to create space for herself in the centre of the pitch if she needs to get clear of a marker.
Her partnership with Bomford has provided Bulleen with two midfielders that can dominate box-to-box, and developing that connection so quickly has been a big reason behind the Lion’s resurgence.
That combination also allows Eliadis to be used in an attacking role where her experience and ability has been crucial in creating opportunities for Bulleen’s attack.
At 26, Cain is nearing the peak of her powers, and still seems to be getting better with each season. Cain is no quiet achiever, she is a lot of fun to watch and obviously highly rated at her club, but she did not figure in many pre-season Gold Medal predictions yet has been dominant in a strong side.
Is Sarah Cain underrated? It probably doesn’t matter, she has been outstanding.
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Above: Hayley Raso (left) and Sam Kerr (right) celebrate after the latter scored the opening goal in Australia’s win over Kenya tonight. Photo: via Commbank Matildas.
Australia has won its 2026 FIFA Series after defeating Kenya 2-0 in today’s final.
It was not a pretty performance from the Matildas, with the side not delivering its finest performance, but goals from Sam Kerr and Clare Wheeler ultimately saw the series favourites get the job done.
Unsurprisingly it was the Australians who initially took a leading role in setting the tone for the match, with Hayley Raso in particular looking lively early.
However though despite what their world ranking would suggest, the Kenyans did really take it up to the Matildas for much of the first half.
The first half was much more competitive than any stage of the match against Malawi on the weekend was, and although they were getting good runs down both wings Kenya just did not have the numbers in the box to truly capitalise.
Vivian Nasaka was being lively for Kenya, but was playing a very wide left wing role and as such did not have the support in the box from her team mates to maximise on how close she was getting to goal. Tereza Obunyu was also getting some good runs through the middle, but much like Nasaka did not have the numbers support to truly capitalise.
It may have taken almost 25 minutes, but eventually the Matildas did finally find the opening goal through Kerr, whose shot initially was stopped by the Kenyan keeper Lilian Onyango, but the ball then slipped through her hands and the ball trickled into the back of the net.
Kerr makes it goals in back-to-back games and has the opener here in Kenya! 💪
One thing the first half was teaching Australia was to be really patient with their shots on goal, really having to wait to find the space and then shoot, despite having more of the ball in more dangerous positions in front of goal than its opposition.
Kenya did have some really strong shots on goal through Shalyne Opisa and Fasila Omondi, but some strong goal keeping from Mackenzie Arnold denied the Kenyans an equaliser thrice within a minute.
Kerr’s goal proved to ultimately be the only one of the first half, and the Australians went into the half time break with plenty to think about ahead of the second half.
Australian coach Joe Montemurro did make an intriguing substitution at half time, with midfielder Emily van Egmond coming on in place of winger Raso and Amy Sayer pushing into that wider role Raso had been playing.
Australia started on the front foot in the second half, with Kerr and Caitlin Foord working well together to generate shots on goal for Australia, albeit their shots ultimately kept going slightly wide of the target.
The Matildas did finally find a second goal about 10 minutes into the second half after Wheeler found herself with the ball at the top of the box, and danced her way around several defenders before striking the ball perfectly into the back of the net.
Australia almost had a third about five minutes later via Foord, but the goal was ruled invalid.
Kenya certainly kept pushing the Matildas, particularly the likes of Opisa giving the Aussie defence plenty to think about, but just lacked the quality of finishes to make the most of any chances.
One thing that will concern Montemurro and his staff moving forward was the lack of clinical passing, with the passing particularly in transition leaving much to be desired and handing the Kenyans much easier opportunities to intercept than a side of Australia’s quality should have been.
Ultimately those two goals were enough for the Australians to get the job done, but the Australian coaching staff will leave Kenya with plenty to think about ahead of the next stage of the team’s preparations for next year’s World Cup.
Above: Lauren Hemp celebrating her goal in the opening three minutes. Photo: via Lionesses
After scoring early on, England held defensively strong to keep Spain out and secure all three points in their race to World Cup qualification.
The two-time European Champions took the lead early through Hemp. In the third minute, Greenwood’s corner ball was not cleared well with the ball bouncing around the six-yard box. Hemp struck the ball on the volley and after some confusion as to whether the ball crossed the line, the goal line technology signaled it had.
Hemp had the chance to double the lead in the 19th minute, but her effort struck the post.
Ona Battle found herself with an unusual opportunity inside the England box. After receiving the ball and weaving between three England bodies, she takes a close-range shot. However, the full-back slices the shot and her effort flies over the bar.
Just before the break, the visitors registered their first shot on target. Patri Guijarro slipped behind the England defense and directed the crossed ball goalward. Hannah Hampton was there to stop the shot at her front post.
Five minutes into the second half, the visitors hit the bar. Olga Carmona stuck the crossbar inside the England penalty box.
On her senior debut, Lucia Kendall squandered a golden opportunity to score a goal just a minute after the Spain chance. Alessia Russo unselfishly slotted the ball across goal for Kendall, but the 21-year-old blazed the ball over.
Vicky Lopez missed a great chance to level the game in the 56th minute. She receives the ball inside the England box and strikes the ball well. Unfortunately, the effort struck the post and bounced out.
12 minutes later, Lopez found herself in another shooting opportunity. After cutting in from the right, she watched her effort get parried away by Hampton.
In the 70th minute, Claudia Pina’s corner found fellow Barcelona teammate Irene Parades at the back post. The centre-back could not direct the headed effort on target.
Hampton produced an excellent save in the 90th minute, denying Edna Imade’s close range-headed effort.
Lineups:England (4-3-3): Hampton (Chelsea), Bronze (Chelsea), Wubben-May (Arsenal), Morgan (Washington Spirit), Greenwood (Manchester City), Kendall (Aston Villa), Walsh (Chelsea), Stanway (Bayern Munchen), Hemp (Manchester City), Russo (Arsenal), James (Chelsea). SUBS: Moorhouse (Orlando Pride), Roebuck (Aston Villa), Carter (Gotham FC), Le Tissier (Manchester United), Charles (Chelsea), Hinds (Arsenal), Parkinson (Valadares Gaia), Blindkilde (Arsenal), Kelly (Arsenal), Park (Manchester United), Barry (Bay FC)
Above: Aoife Mannion (left) and Katie McCabe (right) celebrate after McCabe scored a trademark banger of a goal early in Ireland’s confidence boosting win over Poland. Photo: via Ireland Football.
The Republic of Ireland has breathed some new life into its World Cup qualifying campaign, earning a hard fought 3-2 win over Poland.
The Irish did control proceedings for much of the match and skipped out to an early lead thanks to Emily Murphy and skipper Katie McCabe, before a timely goal from Tanja Pawollek just changed the script a bit for the home side. Goals to Marissa Sheva and Ewa Pajor in the second half ultimately ensured that half time margin was also the full time margin.
The way that the Irish were able to win the match will also give them a lot of confidence not only for the return leg of this window on the weekend, but moving forward into the final window of the campaign. Despite losing momentum towards the end of the first half, the Irish regrouped well at half time and defended really well to ultimately emerge victorious.
Initially it was a pretty even start to the match, with neither side really taking control of proceedings.
One thing that both sides were doing early though was misplacing their passes, with the poor quality of the pitch not helping either side’s passing accuracy.
Eventually the Irish did make the break through on the scoreboard 12 minutes in, when Murphy wrong footed a couple of defenders and curled the ball perfectly into the back of the net.
The goal really gave the Irish a positive spring in their step, and as such they were starting to take a little bit of control of the match and a strong counter press from the Girls in Green was helping box the Poles into their defensive third.
That pressure brought reward again in the 20th minute, when the deflection of a corner cross found McCabe at the edge of the box, who then scored an absolute banger from distance to double the Republic of Ireland’s lead.
Poland did have a really strong chance just before the half an hour mark, but some strong defensive work at the death from Aoife Mannion and then Anna Patten denied Natalia Padilla-Bidas and then Pajor.
But despite the brief moments of positivity from Poland as the half progressed, it was the visitors who were in control of the match. Paulina Tomasiak was proving dangerous on the left wing for Poland, but closer to goal some attentive defending from the Irish meant that the danger was reduced.
Just as it was looking like the Irish were going to take a clean sheet into the half time break, Pawollek popped up and headed the cross in perfectly to get one back for the home side.
Pawollek’s goal changed the balance of the game at the half time break.
The Poles gaining some confidence after being on the back foot for much of the half while for the visitors it was a case of needing to reset and take control of the match back to avoid proceedings ending the same way both matches did last window.
The second half started in much the same even way the first did, with both sides getting promising looks on goal.
Poland did deploy a slight change in tactic early in the second half though, with long through balls to the Polish attackers becoming a more prevalent part of proceedings.
It was the Republic of Ireland who would score first in the second half though, when Sheva used her powerful shooting ability to strike a long range shot from just inside the box straight into the back of the net.
Sheva’s goal seemed to settle things for the Irish, who really did retake control of the match and were passing with a lot more confidence than the home side were.
Poland were not going down without a fight though, and after her influence had been curtailed for most of the match, Pajor popped up with just over 10 minutes to go and perfectly chipped a shot over Courtney Brosnan and into the back of the net to breathe some life into the game for the hosts.
The Irish had a prime opportunity to put a halt to that breath of life mere minutes later, but McCabe uncharacteristically missed a penalty shot on goal.
It ultimately did not matter because as hard as Poland pushed at the end of the match, the Irish held firm and earned the full three points.
Above: Will Katie McCabe (facing camera) and her Irish team mates have anything to truly celebrating in this potentially course altering international window? Photo:via @IrelandFootball on Twitter.
Republic of Ireland vs Poland– April 2026
Tuesday 14th April 5pm kick off local time Polsat Plus Arena, Gdańsk
Saturday 18th April 4pm kick off local time Aviva Stadium, Dublin
Both matches will be streamed on RTÉ2 and the RTÉ Player, but those outside the island of Ireland will need a strong VPN to access the RTÉcoverage.
It is the dawn of another international window, and like all their international windows these days, this one is a significant one for the Republic of Ireland.
In the middle of the another Nations League campaign – this one serving as qualifiers for next year’s World Cup – this window in particular is perhaps more make or break than usual for the Girls in Green.
Last window saw some impressive performances from the Irish, which saw them really match it with two of the best teams in Europe – France and the Netherlands, but despite how noble those performances were they don’t count for much in the long run as they were both losses.
One trend with the Republic of Ireland in recent years is that when coming up against the stronger teams in the world, they will be competitive for much of the match and play better than their ranking in the mid to low 20s would suggest, but ultimately not able to get the job done on the scoreboard.
Although Poland should never be underestimated, these two matches provide the biggest opportunity for the Republic of Ireland to pick up some big points this campaign.
What happens this window could dictate a lot in terms of not only how easy the Irish path to qualifying for the World Cup is, but even more than that.
Finishing third in a League A group makes the play off path later this year much easier.
In the first round, whoever finishes third plays a team from League C, whereas the fourth placed side has to play a side from League B, a significant step up in quality. The side would still likely face a League B side in round two of the playoffs regardless, but the likelihood of making round two is significantly higher with that easier draw.
Not only all of this, but looking further ahead, if the Republic of Ireland finish third in their group, they remain in League A for the next Nations League campaign and break the cycle of rotating between being in League B one year, than League A the next.
For a side like the Republic of Ireland that is an up and coming side trying to lock down its place in the group of the top sides on the continent, more games against tough opponents is the only way this team will improve, and that’s just not available in League B.
Return of a legend equals massive boost
Above: Denise O’Sullivan will make a more than welcome return to the Irish side tonight after missing the second game of last international window. Credit: via @IrelandFootball on Twitter
One thing that was really evident in the game against the Netherlands last window was the importance of midfield maestro Denise O’Sullivan to the heart of the Irish operation in midfield.
O’Sullivan missed the game against the Netherlands due to injury, and as such her ability to drive through the heart of midfield and break open a crowded pack was sorely missed by the Irish.
But O’Sullivan is back and ready to go this window, and after a strong run of form for club side Liverpool will be raring to go to help power the Republic of Ireland forward once again.
Will the boss reward club form?
Above: Abbie Larkin (left), Amber Barrett (centre) and Saoirse Noonan (right) are all in good goal scoring form at club level, but will they be given increased opportunities to shine at international level this window? Photo:via RTE (photo one and two) and Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile (photo three)
One interesting area to keep an eye on will be how the Irish forward line sets up.
The Irish need to pick up their goal scoring production, but one trend manager Carla Ward seems to like to follow is that she has her favourite first choice players, and does not always reward domestic form with big minutes at international level.
Emily Murphy is in good form at club level and does get rewarded, but Saoirse Noonan, Abbie Larkin and Amber Barrett are also all in good form for their clubs but are not seeing the minutes for the national team that such form would suggest.
Will things change this window? Only time will tell.
Republic of Ireland Squad – April 2026 vs Poland
Goalkeepers: Courtney Brosnan, Sophie Whitehouse and Grace Moloney.
Defenders: Katie McCabe, Anna Patten, Caitlin Hayes, Aoife Mannion and Chloe Mustaki.
Above: North Korea did plenty of celebrating in tonight’s win over Australia, showing why they are the reigning tournament champions. Photo:via AFC.
Reigning Under 20 Women’s Asian Cup champions North Korea are through to the semi finals of the 2026 tournament after defeating Australia 3-0 tonight.
The North Koreans controlled proceedings for much of the match and found reward on the scoreboard through Pak Ok-I and Ro Un-Hyang as well as through a very unfortunate own goal from Young Matilda Rubi Sullivan. The Australians did play better than they had last time out against Japan, but had limited chances to attack and could not convert any of the chances they had.
North Korea did not take long to show its class, scoring after only three minutes.
Pak Ok-Iwas alone out the back of the box, and after the ball was perfectly crossed to her she was able to strike truly and give her side a very early lead.
The North Koreans dominated possession for much of the first half – ultimately having 68.5% of possession in the first half – leaving the Young Matildas to do a lot of chasing and not much dictating of the play.
The Australians did manage to get the ball into their attacking final third on a few occasions, but in the desperation to clear the congestion of North Korea’s midfield and attackers, Australia’s long balls were too long again and again, which were picked off by the North Korean defenders with relative ease.
Things got even harder for Australia about halfway through the first half when Danella Butrus went down in a collision and had to be substituted off.
Despite the immense defensive pressure and at times questionable tactics from their opponents, the Australians continued to play confidently and continued to fight hard.
Despite the continuous long, booting passes with a focus on distance over accuracy, Australia was a lot more defensively sure for most of the first half than it had been against Japan. It appeared that the Young Matildas had seemingly learnt the necessary lessons from both that game and the early goal in this one.
Australia had its first really dangerous opportunity about half an hour in when Tianna Fuller – who had come on for Butrus – fed the ball through near perfectly to Tahlia Younis, who unfortunately just could not quite squeeze around the North Korean defender and take a hold of the ball and shoot.
It was an at times chaotic first half, but in the end the half time scoreline was only 1-0 and things were starting to build positively for the Young Matildas.
The second half started in much the same way much of the first half played out, with Australia having to do a lot of defensive work.
The Australians did have another really strong chance to score early in the second half after an errant back pass from the North Koreans, but the Australian attackers unable to capitalise on the prime opportunity.
As the half progressed the energy and tension started to rise, with frustrations starting to boil at times from both sides.
As positive as Australia’s progression had been as the game progressed, disaster struck with about 15 minutes to go when a North Korean shot on goal deflected off the hip of Sullivan and into the back of the net.
There was more heart ache for the Australians within the final moments of regular time when Ro Un-Hyang caught Illona Melegh well out of her box and was able to stroll the ball into an open net and score easily.
This was the icing on the cake for the North Koreans in what was a valiant but at times a frustrating day at the office for the Young Matildas.
Teams: NORTH KOREA U20’s (4-4-2): Pak Ju-Gyong, Jong Pok-Yong, Ri Ye-Gyong, Pak Ok-I, Choe Yon-A, Choe Rim-Jong, Kang Ryu-Mi, Ho Kyong, Pak Il-Sim, Ri Kuk-Hyang, Ro Un-Hyang. Substitutes: Kim Ju-Hyang, Jon Il-Chong, So Ryu-Gyong, Ri Su-Jong, Choe Chong-Gum, Yom Chol-Nim, Choe Kyong-Mi, An Kyong-Yong, Ri Ok, Ri Pom.
London City Lionesses have entered the Women’s Super League this season aiming to establish themselves among the division’s elite, competing against clubs with established fanbases and long-standing ties to men’s teams, while attempting to build a support base of their own from scratch.
What Makes London City Lionesses Different?
After gaining promotion at the end of last season, London City Lionesses have entered the Women’s Super League with clear intent. Survival has not been framed as the limit of their ambition, with the club targeting a place among the league’s top sides.
Recent seasons have seen a familiar pattern, with promoted teams often returning straight to the Championship. London City Lionesses have shown no sign of accepting that outcome.
They currently sit seventh in the table, level on points with Brighton & Hove Albion Women, holding their own in a competitive division.
Yet, the most interesting thing about the club is not their league position or ambition. London City Lionesses are the only side in the division not affiliated with a men’s team, raising a different question altogether. Who supports them?
Most women’s teams are tied to established men’s clubs with deep-rooted histories. Supporters often follow through existing loyalty, whether through family tradition or prior connection to the men’s side. For an independent club, attracting that same level of support presents a different challenge.
London City Lionesses are beginning to answer that challenge. Their recent fixture against Arsenal Women was sold out. The supporters are arriving, and so are the results.
Taking on the Giants
The scale of that challenge remains significant. Clubs such as Liverpool, Leicester City, Manchester United, and Aston Villa benefit from global fanbases, generational support, and regional identities.
London City Lionesses find themselves in a crowded region. As a London-based club, they share space with huge sides such as Arsenal, Chelsea, West Ham, and Tottenham Hotspur meaning location alone is not enough to separate them.
The National Women’s Soccer League offers a useful comparison. Clubs there operate independently, without direct links to men’s teams, but benefit from far larger geographical identities. In the United States, support is often tied to city or state rather than a shared club badge across men’s and women’s sides. Teams such as Angel City, Bay FC, and San Diego Wave represent expansive regions, allowing them to build distinct and natural followings even without the backing of a men’s counterpart.
That is not the case in London.
London City Lionesses are competing for attention rather than inheriting it. They are not only building a team, but also establishing relevance in a league where support can shape atmosphere and momentum.
Meet the LCL Fans
Without decades of history or a global brand behind them, the fanbase of London City Lionesses is unlike most sides in the women’s game. Their support is not inherited or passed down through generations. It is actively chosen.
The Women’s Super League has grown rapidly in recent years, with rising attendances and increased visibility introducing football to new audiences. Many of these supporters arrive without prior allegiances. For some, London City Lionesses have become a natural entry point into the women’s game.
The club’s fans are diverse. Local supporters are drawn by the accessibility of matches and the sense of community the club fosters. Younger audiences and families are increasingly present, attracted to matchday experiences that feel social and engaging. There are also football-first fans who follow the women’s game rather than a specific team, choosing London City Lionesses because of what the club represents as an independent side.
Others have not opted for larger clubs as, if not a football fan prior, it can appear overwhelming as to where to place your alliance, so a new, independent, and growing team can stand out.
What unites all these supporters is choice. They are not bound by family tradition, men’s club allegiances, or long-standing loyalty. They are fans who have actively decided to follow London City Lionesses, creating a relationship with the club that is built on engagement, shared experience, and community rather than history.
What They’re Getting Right
London City Lionesses are offering more than just what happens on the pitch, they are building a full matchday experience around it. Supporters who buy tickets with Mastercard have the chance to win meet-and-greet opportunities with players, something that helps create a closer connection between fans and the team. Around the game itself, there is a clear focus on atmosphere.
Fan zones, live music, games and giveaways are regular features, alongside themed matchdays that feel more like events than just fixtures. Food options are varied too, with street food-style vendors adding to the overall feel of the day. Even after the final whistle, players often spend time with supporters, signing and interacting in a way that feels genuine. It is all quite simple, but it works. London City Lionesses are giving people a reason to come, and more importantly, a reason to return.
Building a fanbase from scratch requires more than performances on the pitch. It demands a reason for supporters to invest their time and attention.
Across the women’s game, growth has been clear. Arsenal Women have drawn crowds of over 40,000 for major fixtures, reflecting the rising interest in the sport. At the same time, that growth has highlighted a gap between the top end of the game and the everyday match-going experience.
London City Lionesses have positioned themselves within that space. Ticket prices remain accessible, lowering the barrier for new supporters. Matchdays offer a closer connection to players and staff, creating an environment that feels more personal than at larger venues.
There is also a clear sense of identity. Without the influence of a men’s side, the club are able to shape their own culture. The result is something that feels modern, open and community-focused.
In a competitive league, those details matter. For many supporters, they are enough to turn initial interest into long-term support.
A New Kind of Football Loyalty
Football loyalty has traditionally been passed down through generations, shaped by family, location and identity.
London City Lionesses represent a different model.
Their supporters are not bound by history. Instead, their loyalty is built through choice. That creates a different relationship between club and fan, one that is shaped by experience rather than expectation.
Choosing a club can create a stronger sense of connection. It is based on what the team represents, how it feels to attend matches and how supporters engage with the club itself.
As women’s football continues to grow, this form of support may become more common, reflecting a shift towards a more personal and intentional kind of loyalty.
Rethinking the Future of Women’s Football
The position of London City Lionesses raises wider questions about the structure of the women’s game.
Many clubs benefit from links to established men’s sides. Teams such as Chelsea and Manchester United draw on global recognition and existing fanbases, which has contributed significantly to the growth of the sport.
However, it is not the only model available.
Independent clubs offer a different approach. Without the weight of history, they are able to build identities that are specific to the women’s game. While they may not have the same reach, they are not competing for attention within a wider club structure.
As the sport develops, there may be space for both approaches. London City Lionesses show that growth does not have to rely entirely on legacy.
Built for What’s Next, Not What’s Been
London City Lionesses operate without many of the advantages their rivals possess. There is no inherited support, no long-established identity and no guaranteed audience.
That absence has allowed something else to develop.
Without being tied to the past, the club are free to focus on what comes next. Their growth is centred on attracting new supporters, developing a clear identity and evolving alongside the wider game.
In a league shaped by history, that approach offers something different.
While others are defined by what they have been, London City Lionesses are building what they could become.
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Above: Leticia McKenna commemorates a first cap for The Matildas. Photo: Football Australia
Australia has defeated Malawi 5-0 in the opening game of The FIFA Series. Emily Van egmond, Sam Kerr scored in the first half, while Alex Chidiac and Holly McNamara added more after the break. Leticia McKenna made her senior debut for Australia in the convincing win.
With several big names missing or rested, Matildas coach Joe Montemurro still managed to name a familiar looking lineup. Emily Van egmond started at the point of a midfield that combined Alex Chidiac and Clare Wheeler. Sam Kerr, Caitlin Foord and Hayley Raso started up front, while the back four consisted of Charlie Rule, Winonah Heatley, Courtney Nevin and Kaitlyn Torpey.
Australia got off to the best possible start, a quickly taken free kick saw Van egmond race behind the Malwai defence and flick the ball beyond the onrushing goalkeeper. Despite going a goal down, Malawi did not look eager to chase the game, sitting back in with all players behind the ball, neither flooding the defence not pressing particularly high.
This made for an open, but slightly slow paced game. It allowed Australia to pass the ball around with relative ease, and dictate the pace and timing of attacks. The game plan looked to get Chidiac and Van egmond near into attack and slip passes behind the defence for the likes of Raso and Torpey to cross.
Malawi’s defence were sometimes isolated but well disciplined, and able to catch Australia’s attack offside on multiple occasions and were able to deal with most of the crosses, until Foord’s ball from the right landed with Kerr who finished on the half volley.
Malawi had a chance to pull one back, when a free kick caused chaos in the Matildas penalty area. Mackenzie Arnold was eventually able to save after initially stopping the first effort with her face, and Australia maintained their advantage.
Deborah Henry’s pace and mobility caused Australia some problems with her introduction in the second half. She was busy on both flanks, but her shots were off target despite getting into some dangerous positions.
Australia’s lead extended on the hour mark. Alex Chidiac, in a best afield performance drove through midfield and took advantage of the retreating defence to score from the edge of the box with her left boot. The popular midfielder last scored for Australia in 2023 and proved her value with an outstanding, performance that allowed her to play in her best position, a rare occurrence with the national team.
With the result secure, Montemurro made more changes off the bench, and the subs made an impact. Jamilla Rankin set up Holly McNamara for a tap in to score Australia’s fourth and Leticia McKenna calmly finished in added time to make the win feel extra special with a goal on debut.
The result was never in doubt, and the match was not a particularly compelling contest, but there were things to be taken from this match.
Montemurro’s game plan continues to evolve, but his ideal style of play is becoming more apparent. While most of his predecessors employed long, often aerial passes to get behind the defence, This version of The Matildas clearly aim to keep the ball o the ground and pass sharply.
Building from the back has always been an ambition of this national side, but in Heatley they have a player who can make quick decisions and hit targets with confidence. It sounds simple, but it helps to break the press when the ball moves quickly through it, instead of cautiously. It also meant that even without Ellie Carpenter on the flank, Australia did not obviously lack pace.
The use of Chidiac and Mckenna after her, also demonstrated that Montemurro not only likes to use a traditional number 10, but knows how to get the best out of them. This has been a role that Australian fans have loved to talk about, but the team has rarely been able to really deploy, with most attacks going down the wings as a first option.
The midfield combinations and the square passing of the fullbacks allowed the likes of Chidiac to receive the ball inboard, and importantly while facing goal, The first half probably contained more crosses than intended, but the second showed a closer version of what this team wants to play.
Mckenna’s debut was a long awaited moment for many A-League Women fans. She has been a promising talent since bursting onto the scene as a 17 year old with Perth Glory, and has developed her game at Brisbane Roar and then Melbourne City where she has become one of the dominant and certainly most complete attacking midfielders in the country.
An outstanding ASEAN tournament where she lifted the trophy with the Australian U23 side late last year and the position the plays for the three time premiers, made her inclusion one of the best stories of this camp. That she scored on debut was great reward for the work she has put in to rise into Australia’s elite category. She is both a player you can build a team around and one that can be brought on to impact games, and this should be the first of many caps.
There was a lot to like about this performance, and while the starting lineup may have been too familiar to many fans hoping to see a more experimental XI, it did ensure that Australia had control early, and then could try to employ different tactics and personnel. It is a hard balance for the coach as he embarks on the unenviable task of introducing the next generation. New faces as a must, but they also have to be able to play alongside the stars. The only way to do that is to put them in the same environment and give them a chance to flourish.
This game did that, and while the match itself was not so compelling, it did give Australian fans reasons to be excited.
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