by Ben Gilby (27/7/23)
Above: (Left to right): Courtney Nevin, Teagan Micah, Charli Grant, and Katrina Gorry are all smiles during today’s pre-game team walk in Brisbane. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
Australia head into their pivotal second Group B match against Nigeria in Brisbane tonight with a selection conundrum ahead of coach Tony Gustavsson.
After the news yesterday that Manchester City’s Mary Fowler has joined fellow striker Sam Kerr on the sidelines after suffering a concussion in training, The Matildas’ options up front have taken another hit.
With another offensive player Kyah Simon still not ready to return after her ACL injury, it will be a very different attacking line-up tonight at Suncorp Stadium.
In more positive news, it appears that Tameka Yallop is ready to return after picking up an injury in the Matildas’ final warm-up game against France at Marvel Stadium.
In terms of options for Australia in attack, there is scope for Alex Chidiac to come into the squad and possibly play at 10 alongside Caitlin Foord. Kyra Cooney-Cross could potentially play in a more advanced role, which may in turn lead to a possible starting spot for Emily van Egmond.
The pace and energy of Cortnee Vine will need to be a significant element of Australia’s attack tonight in addition against a Nigeria side who gained a point against current group leaders Canada in their opening game.
A win for Australia will guarantee them a place in the last sixteen, anything less will likely see them need to take something from their final group game against Canada, a match which Fowler should be ready to return for. As for Kerr, head coach Gustavsson is keeping it tight-lipped, suggesting no decisions will be made until the day before the match. The Chelsea striker was pictured in today’s West Australian newspaper doing weight training.
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