Less than 24 hours before Australia’s do-or-die World Cup clash with Canada, Ben Gilby reports the thoughts of winger Hayley Raso as she spoke to the media today (30/7/23)
Above: The Matildas star Hayley Raso speaking to the media ahead of tomorrow’s huge game with Canada. Image: Football Australia.
Australia’s Hayley Raso is convinced that The Matildas have what it takes to beat Canada tomorrow in Melbourne and progress to the last 16 of the World Cup.
Reflecting back on their 3-2 loss to Nigeria last time out, the former Manchester City winger said: “It was a hugely disappointing result, but we’ve left it behind us. Everything is about this game (against Canada) and making sure we win.”
Unlike Australia’s first two group matches, where there was a week break in between, their shot at redemption has come round much quicker this time, and Raso believes this is a real benefit for The Matildas.
“In tournament football, it’s important to turn the corner quickly. You can’t relish the highs or wallow in the lows. You have to leave them behind you and focus on the next game as it comes round so quickly. We’re able to get back on the pitch quickly, to adjust and turn ourselves around.”
The equation tomorrow night in Melbourne is simple for the co-hosts. Win and they are definitely in the last 16 – potentially as group winners. Lose, and they are out. The tournament has got real and serious for Australia earlier than they would have liked, but ultimately, the new Real Madrid signing thinks that the scenario suits them.
“Yes, I think so. It really means that the playoffs start now. We know it’s a must-win. We’re fighters, we play and do our best when our backs are against the wall, so we’ll go out there and do that.”
“It’s important that we’ve played against them recently (twice in four days at the start of September 2022). We know how they play, we’ve also watched a lot of recent clips of them. Tournament football – there is never an easy game. You have to perform. We know we have the ‘Never Say Die’ spirit, it’s about having that belief and knowing we can win, we will step across that white line and be ready.”
Raso is backing the local fans to come out in force to roar on The Matildas tomorrow – whether that be in AAMI Park or at the fan zones across the nation.
“I always knew Australia would put on a show, people would turn up, and the streets would be packed and the fan festivals would be packed, but to be in the heart of it, it’s absolutely incredible.”
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