Above: Brianna Edwards in her first interview in Sydney gear. Image: Sydney FC.
By Genevieve Henry (18/7/24).
Sydney FC have completed the signing of New Zealand international keeper Brianna Edwards. The reigning champions have bolstered their strength between the sticks, as the ‘Save of the Year’ winner will fight for a spot in the starting lineup, with star keeper Jada Whyman still in negotiations with the club.
Edwards joins from Wellington Phoenix, having spent the past three years there. During that time, she made one appearance for the Football Ferns. In joining the club, she hopes to propel her international career, saying, “in the next couple of years, I’m hoping to keep pushing on with the Football Ferns and getting some more caps with the national team.”
Although she represents New Zealand internationally, Edwards was born and raised in Sydney. “It’s really exciting to be joining my home-town club and helping to continue this title winning dynasty.” she said. “It’s very exciting to come home and play in front of my friends and family.”
“I grew up playing in the local area so it’s nice to be returning home to my roots.” Edwards played for the Football NSW Institute as well as Northern Tigers before joining Wellington in their inaugural season in the A-League Women. She has also played for Bankstown City in the National Premier League New South Wales.
“I can’t wait to get going and start my fight for a place in the starting line-up.”
Joining one of the most successful clubs is an exciting and nerve-wracking undertaking for Edwards, but she’s prepared. “I think I’m ready for the challenge and I can’t wait to step up and be a part of the team, and hopefully bring home a third (championship).”
With the signing of Edwards, it’s likely that Whyman will be departing the club, with head coach Ante Juric commenting, “We are still in negotiations with Jada and would like to be able to sign her, however she is expected to agree terms with an overseas club.” Edwards would most likely take the starting keeper role, over youngsters Jasmine Black and Tahlia Franco.
He also commented, “Brianna is an important and a great addition to our team.”
“She has proven to be a very good keeper over the past few years and she will fit in very well at Sydney FC… I see Brianna flourishing at the club and working her way to yet another level.”
In other news for the Sky Blues, Jynaya Dos Santos is also departing the club after two seasons.
Above: USWNT ahead of their fixture against South Korea in June. Photo: USWNT on Instagram
by Aimee Reynolds (/7/24)
Ranked fifth in the world after a disappointing Women’s World Cup exit, new head coach Emma Hayes will be going all out to lead her side back to the medals.
After qualifying for the Olympic Games in France, the United States Of America are known to be the most successful team in women’s football with four previous Olympic wins. Will 2024 be the year of their fifth win?
Alternate Players (can only be selected if any players above are injured): Croix Bethune (MF), Jane Campbell (GK), Hal Hershfelt (MF), Lynn Williams (FW)
Catarina Macario, was replaced by Lynn Williams due to her not being able to physically prepare because of a continuous irritation in her right knee.
Head Coach
Above: Emma Hayes after an interview regarding her becoming head coach Photo: USWNT on X
Hayes only joined the States in May 2024 after Vlatko Andonovski stepped down after the country’s worst World Cup performance in history. Hayes has won her first two games in charge with a total of seven goals scored versus South Korea. However, could they have done more against a team ranked 20th in the world? The USA manager spoke after these games explaining her squad is young and people need to be “patient.”
Coaching at international level is something new to the Brit who no longer has the day-to-day player relationships that she built so well to drive Chelsea to success. Despite this, Hayes and her team are ambitious enough to change their previous tactics to accommodate the new role.
Whilst Hayes is best known for her trophy-laden time with Chelsea, winning the Women’s Super League (WSL) five times in a row and seven in total. The span of her career hasn’t just been in England. In 2002 she came out to the USA and managed Long Island Lady Rivers in New York, becoming the youngest manager in the league and leading them to their first title in the Northeast Division of the Eastern Conference.
Olympic History
The USA are the most successful team in the world. Between 1996-2012 and in 2021 the country has won medals at the Olympics. However in Rio, during the 2016 Olympics, they finished fifth having one of their worst Olympic games in history.
If we go back to 1996, head coach Tony DiCicco, led arguably some of the best players of all time including Mia Hamm and Julie Foudy. At the 2020 Olympics, played in 2021 due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the USWNT arguably underachieved by winning bronze. After a rocky start losing their first game to Sweden , they ended up in the semi-finals but a 1-0 loss to Canada sent them into the bronze medal match against Australia in a superb game that the US edged 4-3.
How they qualified
They secured their spot at the Paris Olympics by winning 1-0 against Canada in the CONCACAF W Championship Final securing their ninth title thanks to a penalty scored by Star Striker Alex Morgan (who has now missed out on current squad selection) which ended up being her third goal of the tournament back in 2022. Morgan also won Best Player and Top Goal scorer (this was joint between Jessie Flemming, Julie Grosso and Khadija Shaw).
The final took place in Guadalupe, Mexico with an attendance of 17,247, and it was all down to this game for a direct qualification route to the Olympics which ended up going the USA’s way.
Strengths
The USWNT have a young squad with new talent they bring to tournament is hard to match, the fire they have in them to prove themselves on the big stage can rise above experience. The versality throughout will suit tournament football incredibly for example Crystal Dunn (forward) can also play left back which is a massive advantage to Hayes side.
Development Areas
After their exit from the Women’s World Cup in 2023, their last major tournament, the USA have a lot to improve on. The rest of the world has caught up with the States drastically within the last few years.
Key Players
Above: USA star Sophia Smith. Photo: The Today Show.
Sophia Smith: At 23 years old Sophia Smith is one of the biggest names in women’s football. Her international debut for the senior squad was in November 2020, where she became the first player born in the 2000’s to play at senior level. This will be Smith’s first ever Olympics. She brings a mix of speed, passion, vision, goalscoring and versatility to Hayes’ young Olympic squad.
Smith’s stats are terrifying for any team. During the current NWSL season the Portland Thorns forward has scored 10 goals in 12 games. Internationally she has scored 19 times.
One to watch
Above: The USA’s teen star Jaedyn Shaw. Photo: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports
Jaedyn Shaw: At 19 years old she is the youngest player in the squad but her talent goes much further. So far in the NWSL, in 14 games she has scored three and assisted once. Internationally, she is breaking records and making history becoming the first USWNT player to score in their first four starts. Shaw is known for her creativity with the ball under pressure keeping possession with her technical ability as well as her agility to get round defenders which will be beneficial for her first-ever Olympics.
Success would be
USWNT standards are high, however in the past few years they haven’t quite been able to reach that bar. Success would be to get back to their winning ways and make it all the way to the final.
Group Fixtures
25th July USA vs Zambia, 9pm, Stade de Nice.
28th July USA vs Germany, 9pm, Stade de Vélodrome, Marseille.
31st July Australia vs USA, 7pm Stade de Vélodrome, Marseille.
All kick-off times are French time.
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Above: Clare Wheeler talking to the media ahead with a week to go before the Olympics tournament starts. Image: Football Australia.
Clare Wheeler is a prime example of exactly the sort of player who will be key for The Matildas in the Olympics. In consistently strong form for club and country and able to play in several different positions, the Everton star has everything necessary in her toolkit to be a leading light in Paris 2024.
Australia travel to Marseille on Friday to begin their medal quest in earnest, and Wheeler believes the tough training regime and opposition in Canada last week to mirror the squashed nature of the Olympic tournament will stand the team in good stead for battles to come.”
“Obviously Canada is a formidable side and they are reigning champions at the Olympics. Going in there we had a physical loading plan to make sure we peak (at the Games)…
“In our strength and conditioning plan, we’ve been doing running pretty consistently and trying to manage loads within that. We wanted to play (against Canada) a bit under fatigue as that’s what we’re going to experience under the schedule, so it’s important to have that exposure before going in…
“It was a tough game physically, but we’ll be better for it. The tournament will be really challenging with the amount of games we have in a close time. It’s important that we push ourselves physically and tactically…and I think that game helped us a lot in our preparation…
Above: Clare Wheeler hopes to be jumping for joy for The Matildas at the Olympics. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
Part of the preparation at the Marbella-based training camp was the Matildas continuing to try new things. One such example was a deliberate tactic of trying to play out from the back at a slower pace. Wheeler highlighted the importance of this.
“From the World Cup, we want(ed) to add layers to our game, and that requires trying to build new things and new outlets and tools that we can use. It’s important to use these games to try these things…it’s another thing we want to have in our pocket for the games going forward…
“Our next game is an Olympic game, and… every day it’s closer and getting more and more real…
“Uniquely for women’s football, the Olympics is part of our calendar (the men’s event is largely an U23 tournament), and for me, it’s always (been a dream of mine) to go to an Asian Cup, to go to a World Cup, to go to an Olympics, and to be an Australian and be an Olympian is an honour and a privilege.
“We want a medal – there’s nothing else we want more.”
Whilst Wheeler was part of the Matildas squad who finished fourth at the World Cup last year, the Olympic Games is a whole different ball game. The compact nature of the event, the ability to be part of a multi-sport event, and everything else that goes with it is something that greatly enthuses her. It is something that Wheeler believes is a consequence of her playing against the world’s best on a regular basis in England.
Above: Clare Wheeler’s consistent performances for Everton last season was reflected in her winning the club’s ‘Spirit of the Blues’ award in May. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Everton Women’s Supporters’ Club.
“Playing in the WSL has enabled me to play in a competition where the speed of the game is that next level. The quality of the players is that next level, and that just tests you…I think putting myself in more challenging situations has enabled me to build confidence and when I do play at an international level, I play against several different nationalities in the WSL week in week out and that helps my own play and my own confidence going into games.
“It’s all about growing and adding layers to your game. For me, that’s more exposure overseas, playing in competitive leagues against the world’s best and that challenge has forced me to grow, and I think you have seen the rewards for that in the national team.”
Her versatility for both Everton and Australia is highly likely to be a huge advantage for Wheeler’s prospects of playing a major role in the Olympics journey. With only an 18-player squad, plus four potential emergency alternates, having players able to play powerfully in different positions is a massive plus. Explaining how her ability to shine in defence and midfield, she admitted: “It’s something that just came about for me.
“It’s something about me as a person, I’ve always liked to make the most of my opportunities. If that’s playing full-back, it’s playing full-back. If that’s playing midfield, it’s playing midfield. I’m not someone who really cares as long as I’m representing Australia.”
“I don’t think it disadvantages me to be versatile. I think it’s an important part of every player to be able to play somewhere else if needed. The opportunity has been there and I’ve been able to fill in for club and country.”
Australia played their final warm-up game against Canada without Steph Catley, Kaitlin Torpey, and Caitlin Foord. Wheeler provided hope to all Matildas fans who have their fingers permanently crossed that the trio will play a part in the forthcoming tournament.
Above: Clare Wheeler driving through the Iran defence during Australia’s Olympic qualification campaign in Perth. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
“Everyone has their individualised recovery plans, but it’s promising to see both of them out on the park running, and hopefully we’ll see them back in training soon.”
Whilst Wheeler is one of the potential stars of the immediate future for The Matildas at the Olympics, she takes nothing for granted in terms of her longer-term horizon.
“Sometimes the unfortunate reality of a national time is that it’s competitive and game time is definitely not guaranteed…I love to play, but more than that I love to be part of this team and represent my country. There have been times where I haven’t played, but that doesn’t reduce my motivation, it just puts more wood on the fire, so to speak…
“Football moves so fast and you can’t predict anything. I know that if I put myself in a challenging environment and I keep pushing myself as a player, both on the field and off the field, then I’ll put myself in the best position for the national team.”
Sweden 0-0 England Gamla Ullevi Stadium, Gothenburg
Report and photos by Rachel Cohen 16/-7/2-24
On a grey evening in Gothenburg in a stadium decked out in yellow, England and Sweden played out their final European Championship Qualifying Group game. The rain mostly held off, and frustratingly for the travelling the goals did not come but England did just enough.
At the end, Sarina Wiegman raised a triumphant fist into the air. The Lionesses had qualified to defend their Euros title. They did it with a fairly lethargic 0-0 draw crystallised what has gone right and wrong this tournament.
England dominated possession and at times their passing was slick. But chances were hard to come by and shots even fewer. Georgia Stanway produced an excellent cross from the right but Alessia Russo running into the box was just behind the ball. Minutes earlier Beth Mead had run onto a through ball while offside. On 35 minutes Stanway took a shot from distance that Swedish keeper, Zecira Muscovic, easily held. It was, however, a shot. The first of the evening. More often attacks faltered because there were no attacking players ahead of the ball.
And then on forty minutes, with Sweden needing a win to go through, the home team started pushing forward, pegging England back for the final five minutes of the half and getting a couple of half-decent chances: Hannah Lundkvist shooting over and Johanna Rytting Kaneryd getting into a dangerous position.
In the second half England again began on the front foot, without creating a clear-cut chance. But Sweden made a series of attacking changes, using their full quota of substitutes to freshen up, increase the tempo and push for the goal that could see them through. Filippa Angeldahl’s scorching shot from distance was saved by England keeper, Hannah Hampton (perhaps the one surprise selection, getting the nod ahead of Mary Earps). An on-rushing Lucy Bronze then cleared up the spilt ball. At the other end, Bronze got a header on target after a free kick from Mead, but it was straight at Musovic. For Sweden, Rosa Kafaji, a 62nd minute substitute, looked bright and full of running, quickly winning a corner.
Conversely, Chloe Kelly (on for Mead) was Wiegman’s only substitution, until in the 89th minute Niamh Charles and, a couple of minutes later, Fran Kirby were brought on to see out injury time.
There was still time for a few more half-chances: Russo tussling with Lundkvist. Stanway shooting into the side netting. And a couple of awkward moments for Hampton, under pressure in her box and getting clattered (including once by Mllie Bright). England did, however, nullify Sweden’s set-piece threat, and speaking post-match, Bright highlighted how pleased they were to have kept a clean sheet against “tough opposition”.
For her part, England manager, Sarina Wiegman described the second half as a real “battle”. But her main reaction was “relief” at getting the job done.
Perhaps we should have expected a draw after the previous game between these sides ended 1-1. But with France taking one of the two automatic qualifying spots from this group and only one of these two semi-finalists able to go through this evening there had been everything to play for, especially after Ireland (already relegated) unexpectedly beat France 3-1 on the night, meaning there was the opportunity to go through as group winners.
The result means, however, that Sweden will need to navigate the playoffs if they want to find a route to the Euros in Switzerland in the summer of 2025. Meanwhile, England have the luxury of selecting their own friendlies. As Wiegman admitted these qualifying games have clarified the issues that England are yet to solve (most obviously chance creation, “the final third, in attack”). At least now they have eleven months to try and find solutions, before starting their title defence proper.
Above: New Zealand celebrate qualifying for the Olympics after beating the Soloman Islands 11-1. Photo:New Zealand Football.
The New Zealand Football Ferns face multiple challenges both off and on the pitch entering the Olympics. Head coach Jitka Klimková has opted to stand aside with assistant coach Michael Mayne taking her place.
The Ferns are in Group A and will face tough opposition in second-ranked France, eighth-ranked Canada, and 22nd-ranked Colombia.
Squad
Goalkeepers: Victoria Esson, Anna Leat.
Defenders: Ali Riley, Rebekah Stott, Meikayla Moore, CJ Bott, Mackenzie Barry, Ally Green, Kate Taylor.
Alternate Players (can only be called up if any players above are injured): Claudia Bunge (DF), Michaela Foster (DF), Annalie Longo (MF), and Murphy Sheaff (GK).
Head Coach
Above: Michael Mayne, who will guide New Zealand at the Olympics. Photo: X.
Previous head coach Jitka Klimková, recently announced her decision to withdraw from the role of coach of the team for this Olympics campaign. Following the conclusion of an independent workplace investigation, which cleared Klimková to lead the team at Paris 2024, she has decided, in consultation with New Zealand Football, that it is not the right time for her to return.
This decision is based on concerns about the team environment, her well-being, and an incomplete restorative process. Essentially, Klimková, who has a signed contract through until 2027, is removing herself from this specific tournament.
A leadership change so close to the Olympics is not a great look for the Football Ferns. It will no doubt have an impact on the team. However, Assistant Coach Michael Mayne is a familiar figure in New Zealand football, rising through domestic competitions and contributing to the Under 17s’ achievement of bronze at the World Cup, followed by involvement with the Under 20s.
Olympics History
The Ferns have competed in the Olympic tournament five times. They reached the quarter-finals only once in the 2012 London Games.
How they qualified
New Zealand qualified through the eight-team Oceania Football Confederation. The tournament was played in February. They beat the Solomon Islands in the decider 11-1.
Strengths
An internationally experienced backline is the key strength of the Ferns and may keep the team in contention for qualifying for the knockout stages. Quality decision-making is core to defensive success, and with the leadership of veterans Ali Riley, Rebekah Stott, and centre-back Katie Bowen, there is an established cohesiveness.
The Football Ferns are expected to continue with a similar playing strategy as seen under Klimkova, emphasizing counter-attack football and leveraging the speed of their wing players
Development areas
Success at the Olympics requires a solid attack. The Ferns’ top priority is finding a player who can consistently score goals and a midfield that supplies them with deft passes.
While some of the New Zealand squad have scored plenty for their club sides, they haven’t been able to replicate that success at the national team level. Indiah Paige-Riley, a prolific goal scorer for her top-tier club PSV Vrouwen in the Netherlands, has yet to become a consistent goal scorer for the Ferns. Jacqui Hand became a fan favourite after her strong showing in build-up matches before the World Cup, however, goals in the international matches that really count are yet to come.
If the Ferns are to progress from the group stage, a focus on chemistry and teamwork is essential. They are not a team of superstars. They have demonstrated a habit of fading away in matches, particularly during physically demanding periods of play such as the ending of halves. Being mentally tough, reducing errors, and creativity while in possession are all vital components of a successful New Zealand team.
One of the biggest challenges is getting the working parts of the midfield right. Go-to player Grace Jale has dropped deeper on the pitch in her wing position, while the evolution of Kate Taylor from central defender to holding midfielder is starting to yield positive results. With Betsey Hassett absent due to pregnancy and Liv Chance a new mum, Malia Steinmetz and her fellow midfielders will have a lot on their plate.
Key Players
Above: CJ Bott in action for New Zealand. Photo: New Zealand Football.
The Olympic tournament is fast and gruelling. With matches every three days and little recovery time, many teams have gone with flexibility, youth, and speed in their lineups. The Ferns need to match this and have notably decided to leave the hero of the 2023 Women’s World Cup Hannah Wilkinson off their roster. A tough decision, and probably the right one.
For success in the tournament to happen, the Ferns will need the creativity of outside back CJ Bott and forward Jacqui Hand to fire. Bott has a dynamic style of play where she moves the ball forward with pace and shoots with precision. If the midfield can provide Hand with space on counterattacks, her speed will create chaos for defenders creating opportunities in front of the net.
One to watch
Above: Football Ferns starlet Milly Clegg. Photo: New Zealand One.
In a recent warm-up series against seventh-ranked Japan, 18-year-old Milly Clegg, currently playing professionally with Racing Louisville in the NWSL, showcased some moments of brilliance. Her ability and physical presence opened up space as she drove past Japanese defender Hana Takahashi, leading to a right-footed inside shot blasting the ball past goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita.
In an interview with Impetus, Clegg described herself as “quite an instinctive player,” reflecting on her goal: “I was just like, doing what I thought was right at the time, and it just kind of happened naturally. But when I saw it go on the back of the net, I was relieved. I was super excited. Yeah, I feel like I’ve been waiting for something like that for a long time now.”
During that match, they held Japan to a 1-0 scoreline in the first half, showing the skill and tenacity that they can compete against the world’s best.
“I think we even saw that in the first half of the Japan game. Obviously, we didn’t carry it out in the second half. But I think we have learned so much from that. I think we’ve got the belief that we can get results in this Olympics. I think that’s the goal. Trying to get wins and get out of the group would be the dream,” Clegg continued.
Regarding their prospects in the group stages, Clegg emphasized, “The goal is always to get out of the group and win games. I think if we are on, on the day, we can do anything. Like we saw in the Norway game (at the World Cup), we were all so switched on and really bought into the fact that we had to win that game. So I think if we all bring that mindset, which I definitely think we can do, we can then do well.”
Success would be
Advancing from the group stage to the quarter-finals would satisfy the team, fans, and national federation. Given the quality of teams in this tournament, that would be a very good outcome.
Prediction
While the Ferns were able to stun Norway in their opening match of the 2023 World Cup, we wonder if this time around they have the needed cohesion, creativity, and firepower to repeat such a feat. In their way will be host nation France, most recent Olympic gold medalists Canada, and World Cup quarter-finalist Colombia. These are all formidable opponents.
Fixtures
26th July: Canada v New Zealand, 5pm, Stade Geoffroy-Guichard, Saint-Etienne.
29th July: New Zealand v Colombia, 5pm, Groupama Stadium, Lyon.
1st August: New Zealand v France, 9pm, Groupama Stadium, Lyon.
All kick-off times are French time.
Missed any of Impetus’ other Olympic Nation Guides? Catch up by clicking below!
Above: Wiegman issues final instructions as they prepare to take on Sweden. Photo: Rachel Cohen
Euros qualifying Group Three was always going to be tough, containing three of the four semi-finalists from the 2022 iteration of the tournament (England, Sweden and France), plus Ireland. That Ireland made the games in which they were involved competitive is to their credit, but the interest has been on hard-fought battles between the three likely qualifiers.
When France beat Sweden last Friday they cemented their position at the top of the group (and guaranteed automatic qualification). A victory over Ireland (who are still yet to get a point) will confirm them as group winners.
Meanwhile, English and Swedish eyes are on the upcoming tie in Gothenburg between the teams currently second and third in the group and a game that will decide who joins France.
The previous game between the two played out to a 1-1 draw. England now sit three points ahead of Sweden in the standings. That means that a draw or a win for England will see them guaranteeing qualification. Should England win and the unlikely scenario happen that France slip up against Ireland, the Lionesses might yet top the group. Conversely, however, with head-to-head results deciding the positions where teams finish equal on points, a win for Sweden will see them through at England’s expense.
The prospect for whichever of England and Sweden comes third is participation in a potentially convoluted qualifying competition, the risk of missing out on next summer’s tournament in Switzerland and, minimally, reduced pre-tournament rest and preparation time, something that will be especially critical after a few years of back-to-back tournaments. In other words, there are real stakes to this game.
The good news for England supporters is that England Manager, Sarina Wiegman, confirmed that everyone is fit and there is a full squad to choose from. Yesterday, the players looked lively, participating in rondos during an open training session. And their spirits seemed up despite a “tyre incident” that meant the team were forced off of their coach en route to Gamla Ullevi stadium, having to walk a short part of the way in the morning drizzle.
Speaking to the press pre-match Sarina Wiegman described there as being a lot of competition for places throughout the squad but did not give many hints about her planned lineup.
Although England only need the draw, Wiegman was adamant that the team were not going to go out with the mindset that a draw was sufficient but rather would be playing to win.
Above: Preston Lions in dominant form. Photo: Preston Lions FC Instagram
Preston thrash bottom of the table Bentleigh to keep pressure on league leaders Bulleen. A first Preston hat-trick for Mebae Tanka, a double from Susan Phonsongkham and goals from Haley Johnson and Ellie La Monte contributed to a near perfect performance from the away side.
In the early moments of the game, Preston demonstrated why they were in such a lofty league position, suffocating Bentleigh with their high press. Typically, it was Bentleigh who then opened the scoring in the tenth minute
Maeve Brown’s cross could only be cleared to Olivia Bomford on the edge of the box. The captain had only one thing in mind. Her effort in actuality was tame but poor goalkeeping from Charlotte Hrehoresin, spilling the ball on the goal line, gave the home side an unexpected lead
Bentleigh’s lead lasted all of four minutes. Johnson’s reverse pass found an on rushing Tanaka. Bentleigh’s calls for offside were waved away as Tanaka fired home at Melissa Barbieri’s near post for her nineth goal of the season
Tanaka soon had her tenth. A blistering counter attack saw neat an interchange between Phonsongkham and Johnson, sending the former into space down the right-hand side. Phonsongkham was then able to deliver a pin point cross for Tanaka in the penalty area to put Preston into the lead.
Johnson, who was critical for the second goal, added the thirdfor Preston. A ricocheted Phonsongkham cross found Johnson close to the goal. She then took a deft touch to take the ball past Lucy Allison and lashed the ball past Barbieri for her 21stgoal of the season.
It was only right that Phonsongkham got in on the goal scoring action next. After receiving the ball from a Georgia Henderson touch, Phonsongkham cut into the box on her right foot and curled home a neat finish to add the fourth goal of the game for the visitors.
Tanaka then completed a well-deserved hat trick and unsurprisingly Phonsongkham was involved again. Her delicate lay off was met my Tanaka who drove into the boxand with a lethal finish across Barbieri, gave Tanaka her first hat-trick for Preston.
A rampant Preston then got their sixth goal and it was the pick of the bunch. La Monte was able to evade multiple attempts to disposes her of the ball by Bentleigh with outstanding close control. She then set her sights on the goal, drilling the ball into the bottom left corner.
Preston had one more goal left in them and it was Phonsongkham doing honours again. Using her pace, she raced past Madeline Cook down the right-hand side after a route one pass from Dakota Thyssen set her in on goal. On arrival into the box, Phonsongkham scored the seventh in composed fashion, sealing a dominant victory.
This was a disappointing performance from the home side who remain at the bottom of the table. Yet the is only two points between themselves and Moreland in tenth. They will get important results sooner rather than later if they want to remain in the league. They next face Alamein away from home
The gap between Bulleen in first and Preston in second remains at six points and with the two facing each other on the 12th August, Preston remains hopeful that a league title is still on the cards if results go their way. Their next game is at home to Calder.
Above:Colombia, who are looking to repeat their superb World Cup run at the Olympics. Photo: The City Paper Bogotá.
Colombia, also known as the Las Chicas Superpoderosas or the Las Cafeteras are returning to the Olympics after missing out last time round. Given their superb performances at the World Cup last year, they will fancy their chances of a push for a medal.
Forwards: Catalina Usme, Linda Caicedo, Manuela Pavi, Mayra Ramirez.
Alternate Players (can only be called up if any players above are injured): Sandra Sepúlveda (GK), Lady Andrade (MF), Maria Camilia Reyes (MF), Wendy Bonilla (MF).
Head coach
Above: Angelo Marsiglia, Colombia’s head coach. Photo: Colombia Sports.
The head coach, Angelo Marsiglia, has been in the managerial role since October 2023 after Nelson Abadía Aragón, who guided the team so successfully at the World Cup left, after being in charge since 2014.
Before making the jump into the head coach role in 2023, the 38-year-old was already a part of the coaching staff who reached the final of the South America tournament, Copa America 2022, with Colombia who placed as runners-up behind champions Brazil. In addition to this, he was also part of the coaching staff who saw Colombia making it to the quarterfinals of last summer’s Womens World Cup.
Marsiglia is a young manager who makes it clear that his team “always want to win”. He played football himself from 12 and ended up in the lower division of America de Cali and in the Primera B where he became a Valle national team champion. However, after his success on the pitch he eventually hung up his boots and began to take coaching more seriously. He began to coach the women’s and men’s university teams and ever since then, he has worked his way up the ranks which has left him where he is today.
Olympic History
In previous Olympic tournaments, Colombia participated in both the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Games.
At London, the Las Cafeteras didn’t manage to pick up any points their group stage after suffering three defeats, one being a 3-0 loss against the champions of the competition, USA. The other two defeats were seen against France and North Korea that led to an immediate group stage exit. This left the side placing 11th in the competition.
Similarly, at Rio 2016, the story was very similar for Las Chicas where they made another group stage exit. However, they did gain one point this time round after a 2-2 draw against the USA and two defeats against New Zealand and France. This once again left them placing 11th in the 2016 version of the competition.
Qualification
Las Cafeteras qualified for Paris 2024 after making it to the final of the Copa America 2022 against Brazil. The side won by 1-0 against Argentina in the Semi-Finals of the South American tournament and despite losing 2-0 to Brazil in the final that was enough to qualify for Paris 2024.
Strengths
Colombia’s main strength in the way that they play is undoubtedly their high-energy style of football and with a powerful frontline. As a result of this, they have the capability of scoring a number of goals. Whoever they play, they put up a heck of a fight – as England discovered during their World Cup Quarter-Final tie in Sydney.
Development Areas
Colombia can sometimes struggle to retain possession. This can be down to a lack of regular exposure to the best quality players and opponents regularly among some of their players.
Key Players
Above: Catalina Usme (11) celebrates against Jamaica in the World Cup last year. Photo: Sky Sports.
Catalina Usme is a passionate and skillful player who has a record-breaking number of appearances as well as being the top goal scorer for her country. The 34-year-old forward has made appearances for Colombia in the 2011 and 2015 World Cups as well as the 2012 and 2016 Olympics where she scored twice, enabling her team to draw against the USA. Usme will surely be expected to go into this Olympic tournament to create further success for her country.
Daniela Montoya, 33, is the captain. The midfielder represented her country at the 2011, 2015, and 2023 World Cup and the 2012 Olympics. She has over 60 caps and has contributed hugely to her country’s success. In addition to her footballing achievements, she has also played a big part in ensuring her team has equal rights and fair treatment.
One to watch
Above: Linda Caicedo – Colombia’s exciting young star. Photo: Stories en AS.
Linda Caicedo, a survivor of Ovarian cancer, found herself in the spotlight last year after scoring in Colombia’s opening game against South Korea. At only 18 years old, she found herself making history by being the second youngest player to score in a World Cup just behind the Brazilian, Marta. The now 19-year-old is currently playing for the Spanish side, Real Madrid, where the forward has scored eight goals up till now.
Success would be
Despite being placed into a challenging group, the Colombians will be expecting to make it into the knockout stages. After having a good run-up towards this summer Olympics and a superb World Cup, they and their country will be expecting to play for success in this tournament.
Prediction
This will be a challenging group to top, especially coming up against hosts France, but I expect them to have more than enough to make Quarter-Finals at least.
Fixtures
25th July, Colombia v France, 9pm, Groupama Stadium, Lyon.
28th July, Colombia v New Zealand, 5pm Groupama Stadium, Lyon.
31st July, Colombia v Canada, 9pm, Allianz Riviera, Nice.
All kick-off times are French time.
Missed any of Impetus’ other Olympic Nation Guides? Catch up by clicking below!
Ben Gilby provides a full review of this weekend’s action along with photography from Denyse McCulloch (Denyse RM Photography on Facebook) (14/7/24).
Above: Ella Lincoln strides forward for Perth SC at Subiaco yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Denyse McCulloch (Denyse RM Photography on Facebook).
Subiaco 0-7 Perth SC
A hat-trick by Epril Nossent aided Perth SC to a big win at Rosalie Park in Sunday’s late game.
After leaders Perth RedStar recorded a large win of their own the previous day at Hyundai NTC, the second-placed Azzurri knew that victory was vital. Rosalie Park is never an easy place to visit – but yesterday Danielle Brogan’s side were ruthless in denying Subiaco and predatory in offence.
The visitors hit the front with only seven minutes on the clock when Daisy McAllister dispossessed a Subi player in the centre of the park and laid off for Ella Lincoln. The attacker advanced and hit a low shot for the edge of the box that rolled home.
Above: Sam Mathers plays in a corner for Perth SC at Subiaco yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Denyse McCulloch (Denyse RM Photography on Facebook).
Perth took a stranglehold on the encounter with two goals in the final seven minutes of the half. First, Sam Mathers’ corner from the left was headed home from close range by Baxter Thew. Then, Lincoln received the ball on the left-hand edge of the box, turned two defenders, and saw her shot blocked by Savannah Olsthoorn before rolling into the path of Nossent to calmly dispatch into the far right-hand corner.
It took 11 minutes of the second half for the visitors to further extend their advantage. A fine build-up by Grace Johnston saw the A-League Women player run along the right and deliver a perfectly weighted cross for Charli Wainwright who saw her header go in off the post.
Just past the hour mark, Nossent grabbed her brace. Combining excellently with Johnston along the right, the pair carved through with the ball coming back to Nossent on the flank and her cross from the byline flew straight into the far corner of the net.
Above: Celebration time for Perth SC at Subiaco yesterday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Denyse McCulloch (Denyse RM Photography on Facebook).
Eight minutes before the end, Johnston took a throw on the right, parallel to the 18-yard box, and received the ball back. The youngster took a touch and curled a cross-shot straight into the left-hand side of the net.
Nossent completed her hat-trick in stoppage time at the end of 90 minutes when she was played in and advanced into the right-hand side of the box to angle a shot in.
This impressive margin of victory not only kept the visitors in striking range of Perth RedStar at the summit but also enabled them to close the gap in goal difference between the two sides by one after this seven-goal margin of victory.
More of Denyse McCulloch’s photography from Rosalie Park
Above: Kat Jukic (navy shirt on the right) – seen in action earlier this season, scored two goals for Balcatta Etna on Sunday. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
Balcatta Etna returned to winning ways with this six-goal success over UWA-Nedlands on Sunday afternoon at Home Group Stadium.
The home side hit the front with 16 minutes played. Abbey Meakins stepped up to hit a free-kick just outside the area to the left of centre. Her curling effort came back off the bar and was headed straight back into the net by Alyssa van Heurck from around 15 yards.
Just five minutes later, another free-kick led to a second Balcatta goal. This time, Tia Stonehill was behind the shot on the edge of the area, centrally positioned, that flew in for her first goal of the NPLW WA season.
With 34 minutes on the clock, the home side increased their lead further. Meakins received the ball out on the right-hand touchline around 20 yards out and played over a high cross that was met by Kat Jukic’s flick header around the penalty spot and looped into the left-hand corner of the net.
Just before the end of regulation time in the first half, Balcatta went 4-0 up as Zoee Spadano looked up and clipped a ball through from inside her own half which was perfect for Liana Cook to run onto and smash a first-time shot into the net from inside the box.
Pete Rakic’s side kept up the momentum immediately after the break, and within five minutes of the re-start extended their lead. Cook was brought down by Erin Armstrong around 30 yards from goal in a central position. Meakins gathered the ball and fired in the free-kick which bounced in front of visiting goalkeeper Morgan Springer, and flew in.
From the resulting kick-off, Balcatta pounced again to complete the scoring. A loose pass at the back and mis-control by UWA-Nedlands allowed Carys Davis to win possession on the edge of the box and lay a pass across to Jukic outside her to lift a cool finish over Springer and into the right-hand corner of the net.
Fremantle City 9-0 Murdoch University Melville
Above: Tanika Lala, who added another four goals to her tally on Sunday. Photo: Perth Glory.
Fremantle City continued their superb recent league form by recording their fifth win in their last six games with this thrashing of Murdoch University Melville at Hilton Park.
Impetus‘ NPLW WA Player of the Month for June, Tanika Lala led the way by bagging four goals in Fremantle’s success.
Erin Siah opened the scoring after holding off a defender to advance and beat MUM FC keeper Annabel Cook to score.
Lala then showed her prowess by bagging a hat-trick. First, directing the ball into the net when Siah’s effort was blocked. Then, with 24 minutes played, great work from Abbey Green allowed her to escape from Jessie Ellis and then feed Lala. The Goldfields nugget advanced into the box and calmly hit a low shot from close range into the net. Lala’s third and Freo’s fourth came when she headed home Green’s cross at the back post.
The port city side made it 5-0 just over 10 minutes from the break. An exchange of passes from a corner on the left between Alex Poad and Sofie Osborne ended with Green curling a high cross into the mix which eventually fell for Janice Kiama just outside the six-yard box towards the back post to hit a shot that deflected up off a defender and in from around 10 yards.
Above: Janice Kiama (headband), seen in action earlier in the season, made it 5-0 to Fremantle City yesterday. Photo: Denyse McCulloch (Denyse RM Photography on Facebook).
There was still time for two more goals ahead of the interval. First, with three minutes remaining, Sophie Meaden laid off a pass to Kiama, outside her on the right. She in turn fed the ball to Green, positioned centrally 25 yards out. The Perth Glory A-League Women player took a touch, advanced to just outside the box to the left of centre, and hit a low shot that bounced in front of keeper Annabel Cook and in.
It was 7-0 at the break when a move started by goalkeeper Dayle Schroeder began a succession of passes that carved their way through the visitors’ midfield ending with Lala to run through to slot home calmly for her fourth.
Freo added two further goals after the interval. Poad was played in by Lala to cut in and finish.
Then, three minutes from full time a superb cross-field pass found Green on the left. The attacker needs no second invitation in such positions to put on the after-burners. She escaped along the flank and played in a perfectly weighted ball for Mikayla Lyons to sweep home a side-footed finish from just outside the six-yard box
Midweek Results
STATE CUP SEMI-FINALS: Balcatta Etna 0-3 Perth RedStar, Perth SC 4-1 Fremantle City.
NPLW WA Ladder Round 14
Table From: Squadi
Round 15 Fixtures
SATURDAY: Hyundai NTC v UWA-Nedlands. SUNDAY: Murdoch University Melville v Balcatta Etna, Perth RedStar v Subiaco, Perth SC v Fremantle City.
Forwards: Delphine Cascarino, Kadidiatou Diani, Marie-Antoinette Katoto, Eugénie Le Sommer.
Alternate Players (can only be selected if any players above are injured): Solène Durand, Eve Périsset, Léa Le Garrec, Vicki Becho.
Head coach
Above: Hervé Renard France Head Coach. Photo: FFF website
Hervé Renard, born on September 30, 1968, at Aix-Les Bains, was named as the head coach of France in March 2023. He played as a central defender from 1986 to 1998. As head coach of men’s teams, Renard twice won the African Cup of Nations in 2012 with Zambia and in 2015 with Côte d’Ivoire.
Olympics History
France have only previously participated in two Olympics. At London 2012, their best result so far came when they finished fourth. Four years later in Rio, they lost in the quarter-finals against Canada.
How they qualified
France qualified as the host nation.
Strengths
A lot of players have consistent international and top competition experiences in events such as the Champions League, European Championships, and World Cups. Key players are back, such as Delphine Cascarino. France will also play with a true centre-forward in Marie-Antoinette Katoto.
Development areas
Since Renard was named as head coach, the return of experienced players left out under the previous regime and the addition of young talent has made the squad better. However, the team still has a lot of problems against teams that play fast one or two-touch styles such as Spain. This is not surprising when we consider that Olympique Lyonnais players, who are the most represented club side in France’s starting team, had the same problems against Barcelona in the Champions League final.
Key players
Delphine Cascarino
Above: Delphine Cascarino (white shirt) in action for Olympique Lyonnais against Paris St. Germain. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset forImpetus.
Delphine Cascarino, 27 years old, is at the peak of her abilities. With an acceleration of 34 km/h, Cascarino can dribble past any player. She has played 62 matches for France and scored 14 goals. With Olympique Lyonnais, since 2014 she has played 223 games and scored 45 goals, winning six Champions Leagues, nine D1 Championships (France’s premier league), and six France Cups.
Selma Bacha
Above: Selma Bacha (white shirt) in action for Olympique Lyonnais against Paris St. Germain. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
At only 23 years old, Bacha, who made her D1 debut in 2017 at 16 years old, has already an impressive list of honours. She has won four Champions Leagues, six D1 Championships, and three France Cups. Bacha has played 169 matches in D1 Arkema with Olympique Lyonnais, scoring nine goals and delivering 62 assists. She has also earned played 31 matches with the France national team scoring twice. Bacha’s versatility and punch can be one of the main strengths of France.
Kadidiatou Diani
Above: Kadidiatou Diani, (white shirt) in action for Olympique Lyonnais against Paris St. Germain. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
Diani, 29 years old, usually right forward, can play central forward as she did with the Paris Saint-Germain team in the 2022-2023 season when she finished as the top scorer with 17 goals in D1 Arkema. She played 89 matches with France and scored 26 goals.
One to watch
Marie-Antoinette Katoto
Above: Marie-Antoinette Katoto, Blue shirt 9, in action for Paris St-Germain against Olympique Lyonnais. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
Katoto, 25, will finally have the opportunity to show all her talent and skills in an international tournament. With 34 caps and 27 goals, she is not a beginner but was not selected for the World Cup in 2019. In 2022, she was in the squad for the European Championships but was unfortunately injured after the first game.
Success would be
France must make the final. Nothing else will be considered as successful by the fans, especially as the host nation.
Prediction
If all the planets are aligned, France could win this Olympics. However, in my own point of view, it will be difficult to do better than the semi-final if the team cannot improve its passing and shooting accuracy and does not play faster in midfield.
Group Fixtures
25th July France v Colombia, 9pm, Groupama Stadium, Lyon.
28th July France v Canada, 9pm, Stade Geoffroy-Guichard, St. Etienne.
31st July New Zealand v France, 9pm, Groupama Stadium, Lyon.
All kick-off times are French time.
Missed any of Impetus’ other Olympic Nation Guides? Catch up by clicking below!
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