Above: The Young Matildas squad together at the U20 Asian Cup earlier this year. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
The Young Matildas have been drawn in Group A for the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup, and will take on hosts Colombia in the opening game of the tournament on 31st August.
Australia will also face Mexico and Cameroon during the round-robin stage of the competition that features 24 nations for the first time. The biennial global youth showcase will take place from 31 August – 22 September across four venues in Colombia.
Today’s draw took place at Hall 74 Centro de Eventos in the Colombian capital, Bogotá. Australia was drawn out of pot three which also included Korea Republic, Ghana, Canada, Paraguay, and Argentina.
Australia will call Estadio El Campín in Bogotá home with all three of their group stage matches to be held in the 39,000-capacity stadium.
They will open their campaign and the tournament against Colombia on Saturday 31st August (local) before taking on Mexico on Tuesday 3rd September (local), finally completing their group play against Cameroon on Friday 6th September (local).
Young Matildas’ Head Coach Leah Blayney, who was in attendance for the draw, expressed her delight at opening the tournament against the hosts and discovering their opponents for the group stage.
Above: Young Matildas head coach Leah Blayney. Image: Football Australia.
“We are very pleased with the draw today and extremely excited to come to Colombia and play in the opening match of U20 Women’s World Cup,” Blayney said.
“After featuring in the opening match back in 2022, we know what an occasion this will once again be for our playing group with the passionate Colombian crowd in attendance. We expect the atmosphere to be second to none and for it to be an incredible opportunity we will be looking to fully embrace.”
“Drawing Colombia, Mexico, and Cameroon is an enticing prospect and will provide our team with a diverse range of playing styles to tackle. This exposure to a mix of football systems and cultures will provide so many fantastic learning and developmental moments and be beneficial for their long-term careers.
“Our preparation for our group stage rivals will have to encompass playing against those similar playing types and formations. We are very fortunate that we’ve got a versatile playing group and tactically we feel like we’re in a good place around our flexibility. That’s going to be something that we’re going to look to test ourselves at this World Cup,” concluded Blayney.
This will mark Australia’s fifth appearance at the tournament with the Young Matildas qualifying for the tournament by taking home bronze at the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup in Uzbekistan earlier this year. They will represent Asia alongside former winners North Korea, reigning U20 silver medallists Japan, and Korea Republic.
Entering its 11th edition, the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup sees the 24 competing countries divided into six groups of four teams. The top two nations from each group, and the two best third-place finishers following the completion of group play will progress to the knockout phase.
A round of 16 will take place for the first time in tournament history and is scheduled for 11th and 12th September, with the quarterfinals contested on Sunday 15th September. The semi-finals will be held on Wednesday 18th September with the final to be played on Sunday 22nd September 2024.
DRAW FOR GROUP STAGE OF U20 WORLD CUP:
Group A: Colombia, Australia, Cameroon, Mexico.
Group B: France, Canada, Brazil, Fiji.
Group C: Spain, USA, Paraguay, Morocco.
Group D: Germany, Venezuela, Nigeria, Korea Republic.
Group E: Japan, New Zealand, Ghana, Australia.
Group F: North Korea, Argentina, Costa Rica, Netherlands.
Balcatta Etna‘s Abbey Meakins was announced as Impetus’ NPLW WA Player of the Month for May last week. She speaks to Ben Gilby about a bittersweet 2023 campaign, her move to Balcatta, and aims for a successful 2024 (5/6/24).
Above:Abbey Meakins (left) in action for Balcatta Etna against her previous side Perth SC earlier this season. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
Abbey Meakins is back to her best after a frustrating 2023 season. The newly crowned Impetus NPLW WA Player of the Month for May was part of a strong Perth SC side who captured their first-ever trophy before injury struck Meakins and many of her teammates. Now at Balcatta Etna, the attacker is aiming to seal more success this time round.
A strong Perth SC team had just gained their first piece of silverware, defeating the perennially successful Perth RedStar in the 2023 Night Series Grand Final. A major challenge looked set to be mounted by the Azzurri to bring a first NPLW WA league title back to Dorrien Gardens – but then a string of regular starters picked up long-term injuries. Despite this, the team still made the Top Four Cup Final, but there still remains lingering thoughts of what might have been. Meakins began our chat by reflecting on that period.
“Last season was tough as we had such a strong start to the year winning the Night Series, and doing well early on in the league. We had a really solid well-balanced team, but unfortunately, had a lot of serious injuries throughout the year. I had surgery after a freak accident from a ball to the wrist at training where I ended up with a badly broken wrist, a plate was put in, and serious ligament damage that kept me out for six months. It was a frustrating few months as we had injury after injury, however, I am back out on the park now and really enjoying my football.
Above: Abbey Meakins (second left, middle row) with her Perth SC teammates after winning the 2023 Night Series Grand Final. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
“I thought we had a really positive season, we won the Night Series, finished second in the league, and played in the Top Four Cup Final. There was a lot of opportunity for playing time for the young girls with all the injuries we had, and they really stepped up in the second half of the year.
“Since Pete Rakic took over the coaching job at Perth (in 2022), I thought I probably played some of my best football in that year and a half before I got injured. Pete’s philosophy really aligns with how I love to play the game.”
Meakins is a player well versed in making brave comebacks from injury – the period from 2019-2021 was one of continuing major challenges, notably two back-to-back ACL injuries.
“That ACL reconstruction in 2019 was the biggest challenge I have faced in my career. I had just come out of a season at Perth Glory where I had managed to play a few games and was feeling at the top of my game. Unfortunately, I tore my ACL in the second Night Series game back which ended up keeping me out of the game for 16 months due to the next season being delayed because of COVID.
“I looked at my injury as a blessing in disguise, I was able to take a break from football for some time which I hadn’t had in many years – spending more time with friends, focusing on my university studies, and going on lots of holidays. Focusing on these things helped me to overcome the challenges of an ACL injury, and once I was back playing, I really started to enjoy my football again.”
Above: Abbey Meakins during her spell with Perth Glory in what was then the W-League. Photo: Perth Glory.
Following the end of the 2023 NPLW WA season and her recovery from the wrist and ligament injuries, Perth SC’s head coach Rakic decided to make the move to take up a similar role across at Balcatta Etna. Meakins was one of several former Azzurri players to join him.
“When I knew he (Rakic) was moving across that was ultimately the deciding factor in my decision. As well as a few of my closest friends moving to Balcatta, I saw it as a great opportunity, however, it was a tough decision since I had been at Perth from their very first season in the NPLW and had some great memories at the club.
“Balcatta looked to be invested in the women’s game, as well as having some great supportive people around the club which has fostered a great culture. They seemed to really believe in what Pete would bring to the club from a coaching perspective, as well as being excited at the thought of having quite a few of us players join the club.”
Meakins was just one of several high-quality new players coming into Balcatta ahead of the 2024 season. Whilst a number of players came across from Perth SC, there were several other new faces from different backgrounds. Such a changed team could have taken a long time to find their feet, but Balcatta made the Night Series Grand Final and are firmly established in the top four. The attacker explained the key reasons for her new club hitting the ground running.
“We have gelled really well as a team so far, a lot quicker than I expected considering Pete brings such a different game plan to what a lot of the existing Balcatta girls, and few new players are used to playing. Not only from a footballing perspective has everyone gelled well, off the pitch we have a great culture and all the girls are getting on really well.
Above: Abbey Meakins (dark blue shirt) battles away against her former Perth SC side earlier this season. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Rob Lizzi.
“It’s been exciting to play with players like Kat Jukic, Lucy Jerram, and Jamie Lee Gale who I’ve played against for many years, and now find myself on the same team. We still have a lot of work to do, and I feel like we have so much more to give as the season goes on, which I’m really excited for.”
Meakins herself has been in fine goalscoring form, with 11 goals in eight NPLW WA games, and is well on her way to hitting one of her identified targets for the season.
“I’m hoping to stay injury-free and just play some really consistent football this season. Obviously, last year was quite frustrating personally, so to stay out on the park, play some exciting football and hopefully get on the scoresheet a bit more will be my main aim for this year.
“As a team, I think we have the players and ability to take it to any team this year. We want to be in the title race fighting for silverware and really push teams like RedStar who have had so much success over the past few seasons. We had a great start to the Night Series and the first few games of the season, so we will be looking to continuously improve our game plan and start to become a really consistent team.”
For any team in the NPLW WA, Perth RedStar are the team that need to be beaten in order to ensure silverware can be won. Carlos Vega Mena’s team has such tactical nous and that sheer relentless ability which makes it exceptionally challenging for anyone to defeat them. Meakins though believes that she knows what her Balcatta team need to do.
“I think consistency over 90 minutes as well as having the hunger and desire to win games will help us to overcome teams like RedStar. In the Night Series Final (which saw Perth RedStar defeat Balcatta 4-1), we had patches of good play however we just couldn’t sustain it over the course of 90 minutes. Once we start to put consistency, sticking to our game plan, and having that hunger to win together I think we will see our full potential as a team being unlocked. I’m really excited for the rest of the season, and to see what we can achieve in 2024.”
Above: Abbey Meakins (white shirt) contesting possession for Balcatta Etna at UWA-Nedlands earlier this season. Photo: One Touch Sports Photography.
Above: The Australia U23’s mob Ana Margraf after her 80th minute equaliser.
Australia U23’s 2-2 Poland U20’s
(5-3 on penalties)
Australia’s Under 23 team has ended the Four Nations Tournament on a high with a win on penalties over Poland.
Mel Andreatta’s substitution’s made a huge impact, as Alana Cerne and Ana Margraf both scored for Australia to level the scores after going down 2-0. Margraf then slotted the decisive penalty to give the Aussies their first win of the tour.
Compared to the previous two matches, this was a more open game. Shay Hollman and Cushla Rue started in midfield and attack respectively, while Daniela Galic was rested after two full matches where she attracted close attention from Germany and Sweden.
Australia looked sharp early, the passing game that had been a feature of the first two matches was still evident, but there was an extra sharpness in attack that felt promising. Kahli Johnson tested the Poland goalkeeper with a trademark effort after cutting in from the left.
Poland’s strength was on the flanks and a cross from the right drifted over Chloe Lincoln but fortunately bounced off the far post. The rebound was skied over in an escape for the Aussies.
Milly Broughton was involved and proactive in attack, creating chances for herself and others. Her confidence on the ball is growing with each appearance in Green and Gold, and although she didn’t score, this was her best performance since joining the Matildas pathway.
Australia conceded first. The high line and aggressive formation was undone by a speculative long kick from Poland’s goalkeeper. The ball bounced over the head of Alexia Apostolakis and with a burst of pace Nadia Krezyman was free to run in behind and finish calmly.
Poland extended their lead in the second half with a header from captain Natalia Wrobel. The Aussies were 2-0 down, but quickly found a way back into it.
Andreatta made three substitutions. Alana Cerne, Ana Margraf and Isabel Gomez all entered the pitch to almost immediate effect.
Australia earned a free kick wide on the right and Gomez directed the ball back across goal for Cerne to finish on the line. They had pulled one back just five minutes after conceding.
Margraf was making her presence felt playing on the left side of the attack. Her approach was a mix of physical aggression to test the Polish defence and some frankly Bergkamp-like touches to control high balls. Some of her efforts on goal were wayward, but the intent and lack of hesitation was encouraging.
Polly Doran made her way onto the field soon after, and Bryleeh Henry moved into the centre forward role.
Henry’s defensive efforts in pressing the Poland defence added more energy to Australia’s attack but her hold up play helped deliver the equaliser.
After receiving the ball from deep, Henry held off the centre back before flicking a pass to Leah Davidson. The midfielder found a lurking Margraf on the left and the finish matched the buildup for quality. Australia was level and in the ascendancy.
The hold up play from Bryleeh Henry, the final pass from Leah Davidson (I think) and the finish from Ana Margraf.
The Aussies continued to attack. Henry was collected brutally by Poland’s goalkeeper as the two raced to a long ball from Chloe Lincoln.
The Aussie goalkeeper had also pulled off some crucial stops as both teams hunted a win.
Australia almost snatched a winner late but Gomez was inches away from reaching a ball at the back post. Regular time ended 2-2 and the game would be decided by penalty kicks.
Gomez, Hana Lowry and Jessika Nash slotted the first three, and Poland replied in kind. Hollman scored the fourth, and Australia had the advantage when Poland’s last effort hit the woodwork.
Margraf capped off an impressive game with the winning spot kick and Australia celebrated the win.
Every youth camp is primarily about development over results and although the bare score lines make for tough reading, this was a worthwhile camp for the Under 23’s.
In all three games they moved the ball very well, in most cases they were able to play out of trouble in deep areas and creating chances was not a problem.
On the basis of these games it appears that there is a lack of dominant centre forwards, but Johnson and Broughton look to be fast improvers in that area, Henry was excellent when moved to the role and Lowry was desperately unlucky in the opening game.
Importantly, this team never stopped trying, and found a way to victory when a third consecutive loss looked likely.
There is a gap between Australia’s and Europe’s best at youth level, just as there is between Australia and Japan in Asia, but it is closing fast. Our players can compete, and they are at home at international level.
It is very exciting to think about where these players could be in a few years time.
Lineups:
Australia: Lincoln, Apostolakis, Henry, Tonkin, Rankin, Hollman, Davidson, Hughes, Rue, Johnson, Broughton. Substitutes: A Grove, Aquino, Margraf, Doran, Lowry, Gomez, Galic, L Mckenna, Cerne, Trimis, Nash, Chinnama.
With Lydia Williams set to retire from international football, Impetus Football looks back at the impact she had during her career, and the legacy she leaves on and off the field.
When Lydia Williams made her debut for The Matildas it was a different era. Five years on from the Sydney Olympics, crowds for the Australian national team were made up of a handful of die-hard fans, family, and friends. She retires with The Matildas having sold out stadiums around the country, with 103 caps and with the game in a much better place than when she arrived.
Her career has spanned four generations of players, and for much of those 19 years, she has been the number one choice to wear the gloves on matchday. Australia has long been blessed with great goalkeepers and she comfortably sits among the very best in both longevity and ability.
For many adult Matildas fans, Lydia Williams IS their goalkeeper. She took the baton from Melissa Barbieri and had been one of the most constant names on the teamsheet in the most visible and transformative period in Australian football history.
Williams was the starting goalkeeper for two World Cup’s but has been named in four tournaments. She was on the pitch when The Matildas became the first Australian team to win a knockout match at a World Cup, and she was on the field long after the final whistle when they went one further and made the semi final of 2023. She has been a standard bearing player for a long time, many fans do not really remember the game without her, and none of the current side know a locker room without her.
lydia williams sitting in the goal crying after her final world cup is the end for me pic.twitter.com/p4vilHKjaH
Williams may be a household name, but the longevity and success can be misleading. Although she was a prodigy, for many reasons, this was not an obvious path like it would have been for a young boy.
The result is that she leaves the game as an inspiration to the global football community but also one much more local.
Growing up in Kalgoorlie like Williams, Perth Glory’s Tanika Lala did not have access to the same facilities her future peers did, and looked to Williams for inspiration.
“There is quite a big difference from playing football regionally (than what) I have experienced from the main city,” Lala told Impetus.
“Cities provide greater resources and opportunities, such as developmental academies and increased exposure.”
“Growing up in Kalgoorlie, I was not exposed to any academies…it was difficult for me to adjust to the quality of football in Perth. I had to work hard and push myself to catch up technically, physically, and mentally. It goes to show Lydia’s talent as she got national attention at a very young age.”
“That is very impressive coming from the Goldfields.”
Williams did not mean to be a goalkeeper. After spending her childhood playing football alongside Aussie Rules in Kalgoorlie, she and her family moved to Canberra. When she joined her local team, the only position available was in the net. From there, she quickly rose to prominence, making her debut for her country only six years after she first donned the gloves.
Williams was appearing for the Australian national team before the W-League was even created and was only second Indigenous player at the time of her debut.
From empty stadiums when she was 15 to sellout crowds every time the Matildas play at home, Williams has been there through it all.
During her club career, Williams has played with some of the world’s best teams, such as Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain. Like many Australians for much of the 2010s, Williams played in the NWSL as well as the W-League, starting most games for every club she graced. Her time with Melbourne City from 2016-2020 was perhaps some of her most impressive work, earning accolades such as Goalkeeper of the Year.
But, as much as one can say about her career, what makes Williams so special is her character. Highly respected and beloved among her peers, Williams’ leadership and compassion set her apart.
Even the timing of her retirement displays the team-first attitude that she is known for. With Australia set to host another international tournament, the 2026 Asian Cup, she could be forgiven for trying to hold on for one last dance. Before injury, her form at Melbourne Victory showed that her powers had not yet faded.
Some tough choices will need to be made after the Paris Olympics, Williams made the call herself, when she could be forgiven for going on another two years to chase a trophy.
It is a brave decision to step away when the game the most popular it has ever been, and when her matchday pay has never been higher. But Williams has never been about herself, goalkeepers cannot be. They put their hand up for the most criticized and solitary role in the sport, ready to shoulder all the blame for a loss and let the strikers take the glory for a win.
As one of the first women to join the PFA, the Australian players’ union, Williams has always advocated for the rights of her fellow players as well as girls inspired by them. She was one of the leaders in the Matildas successful strike in 2015 to earn them equality with the Socceroos. In her press conference on Sunday, Williams shared, “the one thing that I really wanted was that this team really fights for what they believe in, and we’ve really seen that throughout the years – that it’s okay to fight for things.”
She is a huge advocate for Indigenous women in sport and has used her platform to bring attention to the importance of visibility for future generations. A proud Noongar woman, Williams’ has always encouraged and hoped that her career has inspired young Aboriginal girls and boys to embrace their identity and shoot for the stars.
Williams is leaving The Matildas in a better place than when she first played, and a lot of that is thanks to her bravery, advocacy, and activism. “I want that culture and environment to continue and I think it will. The girls have a fire in them, we’ve brought people in to lead the team in a positive way and really make sure that it is about results and the team and the culture and the Matildas as a whole.”
This is a footballer and a person who put the shirt, The Matildas, and her teammates first for almost two decades. Her legacy on and off field is secure. But the final chapter is not yet written, and Impetus Football wishes her the best in whatever comes next for Australia’s Number One.
Above: Clare Wheeler (left) speaking to the media alongside Clare Hunt. Image: Football Australia.
It’s been a rollercoaster ride of a week for the Matildas. Two final chances to impress Tony Gustavsson before he named his squad for the Olympics, and Australian icon Lydia Williams’ final game on home soil. There was a lot for the duo of Clare Wheeler and Clare Hunt to reflect on with the media.
Starting with the fact that the Everton star recorded her second international goal – in perhaps the most unlikeliest way possible with “the shortest player on the pitch heading home” – Wheeler collapsed into fits of giggles reminiscing about the moment.
“It wasn’t planned (scoring with a header), and the celebration definitely wasn’t planned! An opportunity came up, I was the one to take it and I was as shocked as everyone!”
After mixing Olympics qualification with losses in Canada and then a win over Mexico last time out, Wheeler felt that it was hugely important to produce two back-to-back performances where there were clear signs of progress. Overall she felt it was job done.
Above: Clare Wheeler jumping for joy after putting Australia ahead against China yesterday. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
“It helps us with momentum. We wanted to come back and make an impact on the last game in Adelaide, and we definitely did that with our performance and a lot of positives and key learnings to take away.”
Whilst the Matildas had a late, late equaliser from Michelle Heyman to save them in the first match against China in Adelaide, Monday’s win over the same opposition in Sydney came with a much more consistently impressive performance. Hunt outlined the key focus points for the team that led to that showing.
“We were more aggressive, more attacking, we changed our formation slightly to allow for that and then also the personnel we had on the park were more attacking players. We pressed higher up the park as well and that was beneficial for us, particularly in the second half, we won a lot of ball and led to the second goal, so that gave us momentum and opportunity to capitalise on errors from China but also keep them under pressure.”
Both players also shared their stories about how special sharing a final camp on home soil with retiring goalkeeping legend Lydia Williams, with Hunt saying: “It’s always a privilege to share a field with Lyds and share a training environment with her as well.
“She’s a very old head and very experienced. It’s amazing to be in an environment where you can learn from her every single day, and I feel very grateful to have shared the 40-something minutes with her on the field today and all the memories I have of her in camp as well. It’s amazing to have her still part of a team and today was an awesome celebration of all she has achieved in her career, but also Australian women’s football and football across the world.”
Above: Clare Hunt (right) reflecting on the past week in camp with the Matildas. Image: Football Australia.
Wheeler emphasised the deep-lying emotions around the celebration of Williams’ career had not just on the keeper, but on the wider team due to her impact
“In the lead up to it, behind closed doors, preparations and everything was handled and I think she (Williams) knew there was something that was going to commemorate her and her career, and seeing how emotional she was, taken back by it all, I don’t think anything can ever prepare you for that.
“Everyone in the team knows how much Lydia brings – her leadership and her compassion – to honour her in every way – that’s what the team wanted to do because she gives that tenfold back.”
The send-off for Williams individually and the team for the Olympics collectively was watched by another record Matildas crowd of just under 77,000 – a fact that Wheeler is still blown away by, and recognises the importance of the team rewarding their huge fan base with performances and achievements.
“It’s special. It’s so special. It’s always an honour and a privilege to wear the badge and just seeing the amount of people coming to see our games – it’s the new norm, selling out…it’s not lost on us. We’re privileged to have so many people coming out to support us and we want to keep this momentum going and we want to make everyone proud of us at the Olympics.”
by Kris Goman at Accor Stadium for Impetus (4/6/24)
Above:Steph Catley at the press conference today.Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
The formal announcement of the Matildas squad selected for the Paris Olympics was made this morning. The team gathered at Olympic Park in Sydney for the announcement accompanied by the Olympic Chef de Mission, Anna Mears.
There were no real surprises in the selection with the core team of regular starters Steph Catley (Captain), Emily van Egmond (Vice Captain), Ellie Carpenter (Vice Captain), Caitlin Foord, Haley Raso, Clare Polkinghorne, Alana Kennedy, Mackenzie Arnold, Mary Fowler, Tameka Yallop and Clare Hunt picked as expected.
The remaining positions up for grabs went to Cortnee Vine, Clare Wheeler, Kaitlyn Torpey, Michelle Heyman, Kyra Cooney-Cross, Tegan Micah and possibly surprisingly, given her current injury, Katrina Gorry, who was not able to attend today.
Fan favourite Charlotte Grant did not make the full squad but will be a travelling replacement along with Lydia Williams, Courtney Nevin and Sharn Freier.
Jada Whyman and Winonah Heatley who have been in the squad recently were not selected. Other notable absences include Emily Gielnik, Chloe Logarzo, Aivi Luik and Kyah Simon.
The Matildas Olympic squad (minus Katrina Gorry) at the announcement today. Photo: Kris Goman
Manager Tony Gustavsson explained his rationale behind the selection. “We have limitations on the numbers of players available and a very tight schedule with games every third day. One of the considerations is that you need coverage in every position. I need three centre-backs, three outside-backs, three midfielders, three wide players and three 9 and 10s and one multifunctional player. So that comes into play, but you also need players that can play in multiple positions, and you’ve seen over the last two games some of these players playing three and four different positions in two games. We need some flexibility in such short turnaround at the Olympics.”
Above: Jubilant Matildas in anticipation of their Olympic adventure. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Captain Steph Catley described the desire to bring home a medal at this Olympics. “We’ve been to two major tournaments now where we’ve finished fourth and there’s definitely something within us that wants something tangible to take out of this whole experience, whether it’s the youngest player on the team to the oldest player who’s been on the team for over ten years, we all want the same thing. We’re very excited and very ready to get to Paris now.” Catley further explained, “You never take an Olympics for granted. It’s the most prestigious sporting event in the world and something I’m very honoured to be a part of.” “We’re coming up against a powerhouse straight away in the group and that’s the way the Olympics go. It’s a really difficult tournament. We will go out and do our absolute best and make the country proud regardless.”
When asked about Charli Grant’s omission from the squad, Catley said, “I think that’s the hard thing with the Olympic squad – it’s so small – and one of the things that’s most important is having flexibility and I think that sometimes that means you’re not going to have double ups in different positions.
“You’re going to have more players that can play different roles. If you get an injury in one area you might need someone that can play multiple roles and I think that’s where it may have tipped Charli out of favour. I think that’s the space the team is in and it’s so competitive and there’s so many players that have come in and really proven themselves and been hungry for a spot.
“It’s a really, really hard thing and obviously we’ve had the announcement over the last couple of days in camp and there’s been lots of emotions and lots of people that are obviously heartbroken but football’s also a funny game and she steps into the role as an alternate and you never know what’s going to happen, touch wood there’s no injuries or nothing like that, but anything can happen and she just needs to be ready to be called in as well as the other three.”
Family and friends were invited to the announcement and there was plenty of excitement in the room and a lot of proud parents as the tickets were presented.
Above: (Front row): Clare Polkinghorne, Emily van Egmond, Tegan Micah, Hayley Raso and Steph Catley with their families and Olympic tickets. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Excitement was palpable for debutante Cortnee Vine who said that, “The Olympics have been a dream of mine from way back – when I was doing athletics.” She said she’s, “Done everything I can and put my best foot forward for Tony and it’s paid off luckily.”
When describing when she found out, she was very nervous and very stressed going into the meeting. “Tony tries to get to the point pretty quick but also make you second guess as well which is stressful. I’ve spoken to him before that the Olympics is the one thing that I’ve always wanted to be a part of, probably more than the World Cup. Back when I was younger, that was my thing. I’ve watched Cathy Freeman, I’ve watched the 2000 Olympics here and I’ve always thought that’s something I want to do.” “I shed a tear and was very emotional but I slept like a baby that night.”
Above: (Left to right): Cortnee Vine, Kaitlyn Torpey, Clare Hunt, and Clare Wheeler will be attending their first Olympics. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
The team will be taking a short break with some returning to their leagues before assembling in Spain for the final camp prior to the Olympics. Gustavsson mentioned they are looking to arrange at least one more friendly before the Olympics.
AUSTRALIA SQUAD FOR THE 2024 PARIS OLYMPICS:
Name
Position
Age
Olympic Games
Mackenzie Arnold
Goalkeeper
30
3rd (2016, 2020)
Ellie Carpenter (vc)
Defender
24
3rd (2016, 2020)
Steph Catley (c)
Defender
30
3rd (2016, 2020)
Kyra Cooney-Cross
Midfielder
22
2nd (2020)
Caitlin Foord
Midfielder / Forward
29
3rd (2016, 2020)
Mary Fowler
Midfielder / Forward
21
2nd (2020)
Katrina Gorry
Midfielder
31
2nd (2016)
Michelle Heyman
Forward
35*
2nd (2016)
Clare Hunt
Defender
25
Debut
Alanna Kennedy
Defender
29
3rd (2016, 2020)
Teagan Micah
Goalkeeper
26
2nd (2020)
Clare Polkinghorne
Defender
35
3rd (2016, 2020)
Hayley Raso
Midfielder / Forward
29
2nd (2020)
Kaitlyn Torpey
Defender
24
Debut
Emily van Egmond (vc)
Midfielder / Forward
30*
3rd (2016, 2020)
Cortnee Vine
Midfielder
26
Debut
Clare Wheeler
Midfielder
26
Debut
Tameka Yallop
Midfielder
32*
3rd (2016, 2020)
* = will have birthday between now and the Olympics starting.
Additional players going along to cover for injuries only:
Sharn Freier, Charlotte Grant, Courtney Nevin, and Lydia Williams have been named as the travelling reserves who can be selected as a replacement athlete onto the Australian Olympic Team in case of injury or other withdrawal of one of the selected 18 athletes.
From Kris Goman at Accor Stadium for Impetus (3/6/24)
Above:Clare Wheeler celebrates after putting Australia ahead against China today. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Australia 2-0 China
The Matildas’ farewell match to goalkeeping legend Lydia Williams ended in victory as second-half goals from Clare Wheeler and Hayley Raso sealed a 2-0 win over China in front of over 76,000 fans in Sydney.
Kris Goman captured the action for Impetus from pitchside at Sydney’s Olympic Stadium. These images of the goals and the farewell to Williams are below with more action following tomorrow.
Teams: AUSTRALIA (4-4-2): Williams, Carpenter, Kennedy, Hunt, Catley, Raso, van Egmond, Cooney-Cross, Fowler, Heyman, Yallop. Substitutes used: Polkinghorne, Vine, Wheeler, Torpey, Arnold (GK), Grant.
Scorers: Wheeler 48′, Raso 56′.
CHINA (4-4-2): H Xu, Q. Chen, J. Dou, H. Wu, M. Li, Y.Liu, M. Shen, L. Yang, S. Wang, C. Wu, L. Zhang. Substitutes: W. Yanwen, C. Yuan, S. Menglu, Z. Rui, G. Chen, J. Tang.
Bulleen Lions complete comfortable 3-0 victory over the struggling Calder United. A double from Maja Markovski and an own goal from Maia Haysen kept up Bulleen’s excellent form.
From the opening stages, Bulleen controlled the ball, but it was the home side who threatened first. Akeisha Sandhu found space on the left-hand side and delivered a teasing ball into the box but was inches away from finding Olivia Anderson at the back post.
Yet Bulleen’s dominance paid off shortly after and yet again it was Markovski who made the difference with a moment of individual brilliance. The forward picked up the ball, dribbled past two and launched an audacious effort that flew past Shanel Camilleri and into the top corner to give the visiting side the lead.
Markoski was involved again, this time laying the ball off for teammate Alana Burn on the edge of the box, but her effort was parried away by Camilleri and the Calder defence were able to clear. She almost got her second of the game, AlanaCortellino finding Markoski in the six-yard box, but Camilleri bravely closed her down to prevent Bulleen doubling their lead.
The beginning of the second half followed a similar pattern to the first, with Bulleen in comfortable control of position but Calder having the first chance. This time it was Judy Connolly, who won the ball back high up the pitch, but her effort was comfortable for Bulleen goalkeeper Erin Hudson.
Rosie Rodger found space in the Calder box for Bulleen but could not adjust her feet in time to get her shot away and the ball was subsequently smothered by Camilleri. The away side were edging closer to the all-important second goal.
After this chance, they would not have to wait long. Markovski found Nia Mohd Salleh who played the ball across the penalty area for Heysen to inadvertently turn the ball in her own net to create a two-goal cushion for the league leaders.
It was fitting that Markovski, who opened the scoring, was the one to conclude the scoring. Rodger touched the ball onto Markovski who drove into the box past Calder defenders and fired across Camilleri to seal the victory for Bulleen.
This was Bulleen’s tenth consecutive win. After Preston Lions 3-2 defeat to Heidelberg United FC, Bulleen now have an eight-point lead at the top of the NPLW table.
Their next game is away to Essendon Royals.
Caulder’s poor form continues, this their eight defeat of the season so far. Their next game is at home to FV Emerging.
Above: Lydia Williams and Tony Gustavsson speaking to the media today in Sydney. Image: Football Australia.
Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson emphasised both the level of emotions around the Matildas squad ahead of tomorrow’s game with China and the steely determination to “show who they really are.”
As well as being Australia’s final game on home soil before the Paris Olympics, a sell out crowd of approaching 80,000 will be at Acor Stadium to acclaim Matildas icon Lydia Williams who will make her last appearance for the national team in Australia.
“There are a lot of emotions – emotions about selections (for the Olympics), but also emotions about honouring a legend of the game, and you all know what this team is about, it’s about the players and what they achieved and what they have done,” Gustavsson said.
“We’ve talked in the locker room about my first games and then Lydia talks about her first games and you realise ‘Wow! what a journey it has been!’, and to be a small part of that amazing journey is going to be very emotional tomorrow.”
Whilst there is plenty of attention on sending Williams and the team off on a high, the Australia head coach is clear that he is demanding a vast improvement from his players on Friday’s performance against China.
Above: Tony Gustavsson speaking to the media today in Sydney. Image: Football Australia.
“All of us in the team, including the players, were disappointed about the performance, but we were happy about that last second goal that says a lot about the attitude and identity of this team with the Never Say Die attitude…we want to be much more energised, more powerful, more attack-minded than we were in the last game, and…there’s a team that want to step out there and show who they really are.”
He also revealed that Caitlin Foord’s availability for the game is still in question: “We’ll see in training today, we will put out a statement so that everyone knows.”
Gustavsson ended the media conference with an insight into how he strives to ensure both the Matildas players and fans are at the heart of everything he does – whether it be communicating clearly about selection plans or the scheduling of the squad announcement for the Olympics.
“You want to make sure that this team is connected to the fans – the way I’ve tried to do it is when I sit here in front of you I try to explain what we are doing as much as possible, so the fans understand why we are doing it as I know the fans want nothing more than for this team to perform at the Olympics.
“If they understand part of performing at the Olympics is looking at the selection of players…there will also be different opinions in this room and among the fans that everyone has their favourite player and ‘why isn’t she playing?’ that’s part of coaching, and I’m happy to take criticism for that. The important thing is I talk to the players, talk to the fans…explain why we are doing what we are doing.”
“I pushed very hard to get the (Olympic squad) nomination on home soil…because it was very important for me that the players could be with families and friends and also for Australia to connect to the Aussie spirit and the Matildas. I could have waited another month (to announce the squad) if you look at the deadline, but I really wanted to make sure we did it on home soil because that will create so much energy for us to perform in Paris as well.”
Above: Lydia Williams at her final media conference on home soil today. Image: Football Australia.
Matildas goalkeeper Lydia Williams reflected on her footballing journey and how the game has evolved during her career ahead of her farewell appearance on home soil tomorrow against China at a sold-out Accor Stadium in Sydney.
“Honoured, definitely. Probably the most exciting thing is that I get to share my final game with the team at home with the players, the coaching staff, and the team. It’s a closing of the circle, you don’t really get much time as an athlete to have hindsight, you have to move on from tournament to tournament, from club season to club season…over the last few months I’ve been able to have those recollections.”
Williams highlighted the change in coaching she has experienced over the past 20 years, with high praise for the techniques used by her final Matildas boss Tony Gustavsson.
“I guess it’s the shift in technical ability, the understanding of the game. When we first started, a lot of it was coaches trying to correct technique…the basic rules, and understanding of the game. Throughout that period, over 20 years of playing, you see the standards of coaching coming in. Tony (Gustavsson) makes it really self-reliant environment – it’s your duty to do the job and put you in the best shape, and the most important thing is your performance on the pitch.
“You want to know that you’ve done the work and you get the reward by playing and getting selected for teams and that’s really been the kind of way it’s been evolving in a real short time – five years – and bringing in these really dynamic coaches who are leading that way and really creating that culture shift in the team.”
“We’re all the same as when we first started, no-one’s really changed. We’ve known each other since we were 16 and we were those kids trying to look up to be a role model, and for some of us, we’ve become a role model, but throughout it all we’ve remained who we are and what we believe in.”
Lydia Williams on The Matildas.
Then there is the identity of the Matildas. Williams emphasises the oft-repeated We Are Matildas mantra – players, coaches, families, and fans all part of one group all pulling in the same direction.
“The one thing that I really wanted was that this team really fights for what they believe in, and we’ve really seen that throughout the years – that it’s OK to fight for things…I want that culture and environment to continue and I think it will. The girls have a fire in them, we’ve brought people in to lead the team in a positive way and really make sure that it is about results and the team and the culture and the Matildas as a whole. It’s not just one player, it’s not just one staff member, it’s not just one organisation – it’s everything. The Matildas are the fans, the family, and everyone in between.”
China: Milicic and Wang Yenwen on the journey ahead for restoring the nation to former glories
Above: China’s team interpreter, forward Wang Yanwen (centre), and head coach Ante Milicic (right) at today’s media conference in Sydney. Image: Football Australia.
China’s former Matildas head coach Ante Milicic provided an insight into his new role with the former World Cup and Olympic runners-up, his focus on the rebuilding role ahead, and his thoughts on the retirement of Australian goalkeeper Lydia Williams – a player he knows well.
Milicic has had a tough baptism this international window in his new role, he had to select this squad based on videos on computer due to the short period in between his appointment and the games in Adelaide and Sydney. He provided an insight into the reality of what it actually entailed.
“During the interview process, I had to watch a fair bit of the national team games, so I had a bit of an understanding of the national team. I had to look a bit deeper and watch the girls in the club competitions – in the Chinese Super League.
“That was the challenge when you are relying on video footage, you are watching the games, but looking at the number of match minutes and also the intensity to get an understanding of the way of playing and how in a short space of time we could bring that to the national team. With all our girls playing overseas, we’re not really getting the minutes they need…the girls in Celtic play a little bit more, but in the UK, the girls just aren’t getting the minutes, and in Spain and France, and that’s been the biggest challenge.”
There were a huge number of positives for Milicic to take from Friday’s first game in charge, but the performance and outcome do not distract him from the reality of the situation he and his team are in.
“We’ve played our first game together against a very difficult opponent, so there is a lot of analysis, there are a lot of things we need to work on. The girls tried to execute what we spoke about and what we worked on, now it’s a process of recovery and seeing who is in the physical condition to back up for what will be another strong game tomorrow night…we have one player who was not available for Friday, we have to see how she is for tomorrow.
“That’s things that we’ve got to deal with. Unfortunately for us as a squad, time is the enemy, so we haven’t had enough time to work on…when they took their pause in the first half they looked to adjust a few things, and that second half again they adjusted again. We haven’t been able to provide our players with feedback on how to adjust to the opposition when they do make some tactical changes.”
Above: China head coach Ante Milicic speaking to the media in Sydney today. Image: Football Australia.
Rebuilding any team is a challenge, but one with such a successful past as China is one with even more difficulties. The women’s game is a very different beast now to the one that China were so strong in throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. So what are Milicic’s immediate aims in his new role?
“I just want to build a clear identity for the team. When the people of China watch their national team play, they see a clear style of football, they know what to expect…you just want to build some consistency around the side, so when you get to a major tournament, you know what to expect. I’m trying to look at it as a two-year block – what type of players I can bring in for the next two years…and the girls have been very receptive.”
Milicic was asked his thoughts on the development of the Matildas since he left the role as head coach in 2020. He is blown away by their achievements and proud of what so many of the players he is familiar with have done.
“They are a special group – what they have done for the game, not just in Australia but the world…they deserve everything that has come their way. It was nice to see them again as when I did depart the role (of Matildas head coach) I didn’t have that contact with them, so I really appreciated that.”
One of those players that Milicic knows well is Lydia Williams. China’s head coach made clear he is in awe of her longevity at the highest level and achievements across her career with the Matildas that began in 2005.
“When I got the news (about her retirement), we exchanged text messages. Lydia has been a fantastic professional and should be very proud what she has achieved and what she has done for the game…hopefully she is not lost to football because she has a lot of experience on and off the field. I’m proud that I got to spend a little bit of time with her on that journey.”
Also speaking at China’s media conference was striker Wang Yanwen who reflected on what she believes has to be done to restore her nation’s standing at the top table of women’s football.
“If we want to bring back our prime winning in winning football in the position of the world, with our domestic game the first thing we need to improve is the pace of the game and stronger contact with physical condition.”
She also outlined her thoughts on the first game between the two nations on Friday, saying, through an interpreter: “We were heading (winning) the game at the beginning and creating so many chances, but unfortunately they draw the game with us. A lot has been talked, and there are improvements to be made before the next game.”
Australia lost their second game of the four nations tournament in much the same fashion as the first game to Sweden.
An unlucky own goal, a turnover deep in defence and then an excellent finish from long range decided the result, while the ball seemed pre-determined not to go in at the other end.
Australia started brightly with Kahli Johnson’s effort forcing a strong save from the German goalkeeper. The Western United striker almost finished an excellent end-to-end move that used a combination of players and passes to unlock the German defence. The eventual effort was forced away for a corner, but the German defence dealt with it easily.
In the 30th minute, misfortune struck. A low cross from the left spun off Alexia Apostolakis’ foot, up into the air and across the goal line. It was an own goal that defied physics, both in the distance that the ball travelled that the height that it reached. It was a desperately unlicky way to concede and could likely never be replicated.
Daniela Galic came closest to levelling the scores before half time. Australia forced a turnover in their penalty area and Galic feigned a shot, then cut into space to create the opening. Her effort was saved.
Australia continued to attack, but a succession of corners did not yield a result. Like the Swedes in the opening match, Germany were simply more clinical when the chances presented themselves.
For much of the game, Australia’s high risk passing game was both entertaining, and effective, even if it did provide for some nail biting moments. Chloe Lincoln’s footwork is a marvel to watch, but with very few A-League clubs playing with this tactic it is fraught with danger. Just after half time, The German’s latched onto a wayward pass from Lincoln and Sophie Natchigall made it 2-0.
Dilara Acikgözscored the third goal in the 60th minute with a thunderous effort from the edge of the box. That was one unstoppable.
Australia created enough chances to warrant a better result than 3-0, but could not finish what they created. They were not outclassed around the pitch though, and a little less hesitancy in the final third will hopefully see them open their account in the next game against Poland.
Australia’s Under 23’s play Poland at the much more friendly time on 9pm on Tuesday night.
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