Late Viens strike seals win for Canada over Matildas

Australia 1-2 Canada

by Ben Gilby (13/7/24)

Above: Sharn Freier (right, light blue shirt) celebrates her goal for Australia with Mary Fowler. Photo: Football Australia.

A goal from Evelyn Viens with less than five minutes remaining ensured that Canada came from 1-0 down to defeat Australia in a ‘B’ international behind closed doors at the Marbella Football Centre in Northern Spain.

It was not a vintage performance from The Matildas, but they did have more injury problems to deal with right before kick-off that necessitated a change to their published starting 11.

Already without Steph Catley and Kaitlyn Torpey due to leg injuries, Tony Gustavsson was forced into a late change just ahead of the start when Caitlin Foord suffered a “tight quad” muscle, and Sharn Freier stepped into the starting line-up.

Canada started on the front foot and looked to work the ball along both flanks, but they found particular success along the left. This led to the game’s first chance when Adriana Leon’s pace allowed her into the box, but her shot rolled across the left-hand post.

The Matildas were forced onto the back foot, and the battle between Leon and Ellie Carpenter along the left continued to build. Canada were allowed plenty of space to spread the play ahead of the Matildas’ penalty box.

They were looking to force Carpenter out of the game by running with pace directly at her, or bypass her completely with rapid speed passing around her, and then running into the resulting gap left behind.

With 11 minutes played, Leon used the space in front of her well to gallop forward and fire in a rocket of a shot that Mackenzie Arnold pushed out for a corner.

Cortnee Vine was being used in a more central position up front and was starved of possession as a result of the lack of offensive play that the Matildas were having due to the rapid press of the Canadians and Australia’s struggles to solve the puzzle to escape from their own half.

As the game approached the 20-minute mark, the left-hand side was strengthened with Alanna Kennedy coming across to cover in behind Carpenter when necessary. This allowed Gustavsson’s side to gradually get more of the ball and for the first time, begin to bring Katrina Gorry into the play.

The benefits of finally beginning to get some foothold in midfield reaped rewards with 24 minutes played. Fowler danced her way along the right and left Jessie Fleming for dead before advancing between two defenders to lay off for Freier to beat Jade Rose and fire into the right-hand corner of the net.

Kyra Cooney-Cross then developed a move with Fowler to find Clare Wheeler, who was a reassuring presence at the back and also dangerous coming forward. Gorry and Cooney-Cross’ increasing amount of possession was allowing Carpenter to use her skills coming forward and bring Fowler into the game more.

However, whilst there was more offensive success for The Matildas in this period of the game, they were still struggling to clear their lines at the back. Canada’s high press was causing all sorts of problems and Australia could only rarely get beyond the first line of red shirts when not winning the ball further upfield in transitions.

The warning signs flashed again with the ever-dangerous Leon sending another powerful drive goalwards with five minutes of the half remaining, which Arnold pushed out.

Just 60 seconds later, Arsenal star Cloe Lacasse gained possession along the left and hit a cross in that bounced in front of Arnold, allowing Nichelle Prince to fire home from close range.

There was one half chance for Australia just before the interval when Freier got along the left and played in Wheeler who hit an effort wide of the right-hand post.

At the half-time discussions, the focus would need to be on how Australia could beat the high Canada press and therefore allow a greater amount of possession through the midfield, as, on the occasions they had it in the opening 45, The Matildas had some success.

There was clearly a difference in the opening period of the second half as Australia defended with a much higher line and press, which forced Canada to play from much further back and screen off much of the penalty area.

It was largely an arm wrestle until the closing 10 minutes. Up until then, Canada had a few half chances as Leon escaped up the flank to find Lawrence who in turn fed Jordyn Huitema to hit a shot that deflected off of Clare Polkinghorne and out for a corner. The flag kick came in from the right, Vanessa Gilles got a header across for Huitema, but her own header went wide.

Whilst Australia were more organised at the back and benefitting from the better structure it offered, offensively they were largely anonymous in the second 45, with substitutes Michelle Heyman and Emily van Egmond struggling to get any possession.

One player that continued to stand out for The Matildas was Freier. She took on Jade Rose along the left in a brilliant battle, held her off, and managed to get a low cross in to emphasise her work rate.

As the game entered its final 10 minutes, Canada stepped up the pace, and the Matildas began to look less sure-footed at the back. They were forcing the pass and a warning sign flashed when Huitema benefitted from loose Australian play to hit a long-range effort just wide of the left-hand post.

With six minutes to go, substitute Deanne Rose was played through and got a low cross in from the right which Arnold had to deflect out for a corner.

Moments later, the defending Olympic champions struck. Possession was lost in defence by the Matildas and Gabrielle Carle found Evelyn Viens just inside the box to fire a shot into the corner of the net.

Australia found it hard to mount any kind of reply – the closest they came was three minutes into stoppage time when Fowler showed great close control to enter the box before being tackled by Shelina Zadorsky. There were some shouts for a penalty, but referee Abraham Dominguez Cervantes never seriously considered them.

Canada held on to run-out winners, which they deserved on the balance of attacking play.

There is no need to panic or be concerned. It is to be remembered that this was a ‘B’ international – there were no caps on offer, and officially this is nothing more than a behind-closed-doors training match that would usually be played without TV cameras or media attention.

Anyone remember the far-from-inspiring final game that Australia played against Japan before the Tokyo Olympics? The team went on from there to put in some superb performances once the real stuff got underway.

A number of Canada’s team are fresh from regular NWSL football, The Matildas are coming off European or A-League Women off-season. The real business is 12 days ahead when they battle Germany in the Olympic opener. That is the time for real judgement.

There is scope for big improvement for Australia. There is plenty of time for them to do it.

Above: The Matildas team that started today’s game with Canada. Photo: Football Australia.

Teams: AUSTRALIA (4-4-2): Arnold, Carpenter, Kennedy, Hunt, Gorry, Raso, Wheeler, Cooney-Cross, Fowler, Vine, Freier. Substitutes used: Heyman (for Vine 45′) Grant (for Carpenter 45′) van Egmond (for Raso 45′) Nevin (for Gorry 45′) Polkinghorne (for Kennedy 45′), Heatley (for Hunt 77′).

Scorer: Freier 24′.

CANADA (3-4-3): Sheridan, Buchanan, Gilles, J. Rose, Riviere, Awujo, Fleming, Lawrence, Lacasse, Leon, Prince. Substitutes used: Huitema (for Prince 45′), Quinn (for Awujo 57′), Beckie (for Leon 57′), Grosso (for Fleming 63′), Viens (for Lacasse 63′), D. Rose (for J. Rose 77′), Carle (for Riviere 77′), Zadorsky (for Buchanan 77′).

Scorer: Prince 41′, Viens 85′.

Referee: Abraham Dominguez Cervantes (ESP).

Attendance: Behind Closed Doors.

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England win at Carrow Road for Lauren Hemp’s homecoming

England 2-1 Republic of Ireland

By Fran Lever

Above: England in the huddle. Photo: Lionesses.

Alex Greenwood gained her spot back in the starting XI as England hosted the Republic of Ireland at Carrow Road for Lauren Hemp’s homecoming.

The visitors were missing a key player in Katie McCabe as the fight for Euro 2025 qualification continued. 

Current champions England sat third in the table before the game so not winning was not an option. It was a make or break game ahead of travelling to Sweden next week. Sarina Wiegman said before the game that “Group C is a tough group but was an important game to win.”

Maya Le Tissier was given a start in the right position over veteran Lucy Bronze. Both Leah Williamson and Millie Bright were on yellow cards ahead of the game so understandably they only played one half each. 

Even without McCabe, Ireland started strong against the reigning champions but it was Alessia Russo who opened the scoring for the Lionesses in the fifth minute as she tore through the Irish defence and beat Courtney Brosnan to the post. 

Amber Barrett had an early shot on goal but was quickly swept up by Hannah Hampton. England’s midfield found them disarmed by the Irish but would find a way forward again. Jess Park found space in the 12th minute to move forward and passed to Beth Mead but the shot on goal was wide. 

In the 14th minute there was a scramble with the ball with Hemp, Russo and Jess Carter to find the back of the net but eventually it was Carter’s attempt that was quickly blocked by Brosnan. 

Carter started as left back but has quickly shown how versatile of a defender she is, often switching between left back and centre back but can also play as right back.  

England were clumsy on occasion and it looked like a matter of time before Ireland would find the back of the net. Greenwood lost the ball and it was Hampton who had to produce another quick save. 

England were provided a free kick after Russo was taken down by Ruesha Littlejohn. Park started in the number 10 role and showed why she was one of Manchester City’s key players last season. 

In the 37th minute, Hemp had her chance of a hometown glory goal blocked by Brosnan and was shortly followed by Ireland being given a corner but any chance of a goal from the away side was caught by Hampton. 

Russo had a good run towards the end of the first half but had no one in the box to finish the job. It happened a few times throughout the game after her early goal.

There had been talk over what should be her position within the England set up due to the team struggling at times in the final third. She has often proved herself more suited to be on the wing or deeper. She often finds the back of the net, as any forward, but she is also putting in the work in the build up play and no one to put the finishing touches to her hard work. Ultimately she can not be in two places at once. Could the missing ingredient for a more powerful England attack to change her position then have a more clinical finisher in the number nine role?  Because the missed chances of goals is ultimately where England are falling short and one of the reasons why they sat third in the table upon the start of the game. 

Early into the second half, Hemp attempted to score by distracting Brosnan but fell short. A few moments later, Russo’s chance on goal ended with her being tangled with the Irish players. 

England were later awarded a penalty with a foul on Hemp from Niamh Fahey. The spot kick was taken by Georgia Stanway which she scored perfectly.

Wiegman has been known to be stubborn when it comes to rotation and subs but the game proved what can happen when a manager does that. Overall, England had more flow and creativity in the team. 

Later, Chloe Kelly came on as a sub for Beth Mead and then Littlejohn came off for Megan Campbell. 

It was a battle of the 10s throughout the game between Park and Denise O’Sullivan in the midfield and proved to be a mighty match up, often coming together.

Jess Naz was a late sub for Russo to make her England senior debut after an impressive season. Within moments of being on the pitch, she nearly found the back of the net. She proved herself to be the perfect super sub – which ultimately one of the main reasons England won the Euros so it was about time the team returned to those ways. 

Ireland had a late corner in the 80th minute but ultimately was sent away by Bright. Moments later, Kiernan was shown a yellow for a foul on Naz.  Later on, Ireland fans were treated to another one of Campbell’s long throw-ins but nothing came of it.

Aggie Beever-Jones came on in the dying moments of the game for Lauren Hemp for her senior debut as well and Louise Quinn came on for Fahey. Kelly had an attempt on goal but missed as it was declared that there would be four additional minutes of extra time. Stanway had a shot almost in vain on goal but sent it flying into the stands. Ireland had another corner that led Russell to score before the final whistle was blown. 

ENGLAND (4-3-3)

Hampton ; Le Tissier, Williamson, Greenwood, Carter, Stanway, Walsh, Park, Mead, Russo, Hemp. 

Substitutes: Bright, Charles, Kelly, Naz, Beever-Jones 

Scorers: Russo 5’ Stanway 57’

IRELAND (3-5-2)

Brosnan, Patten, Hayes, Fahey, Mannion, Agg, Littlejohn, O’Suliivan, Ziu, Barrett, Murphy 

Substitutes: Murphy, Russell, Campbell, Quinn 

Scorers: Russell 90+4’.

Attendance: 23,003.

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Olympics Preview: Canada

by Emma Burke (13/7/24)

Above: Defending the gold medal that they won in Tokyo – Canada. Photo: Canada Soccer.

When Canada take to the field at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games it will mark their fifth consecutive appearance at the competition and will see them going out to defend the gold medal they won in Tokyo. This comes following a disappointing World Cup run last year, where they exited the tournament at the group stage.

Squad List

Goalkeepers: Kailen Sheridan, Sabina D’Angelo.

Defenders: Kadeisha Buchanan, Ashley Lawrence, Jayde Riviere, Vanessa Gilles, Jayde Rose, Sydney Collins.

Midfielders: Jessie Fleming, Quinn, Julia Grosso, Simi Awujo.

Forwards: Adriana Leon, Janine Beckie, Nichelle Prince, Jordyn Huitema, Cloe Lacasse, Evelyn Viens.

Alternate Players (only allowed to play if any of the above are injured): Lysianne Proulx (GK), Shelina Zadorsky (DF), Gabrielle Carle (DF), Deanne Rose (FW).

Head Coach
Above: Canada head coach Bev Priestman. Photo: Boris Struebel / FIFA.

North-East England-born Bev Priestman has been Canada’s head coach since 2020, and only one year into her tenure, took the nation to its greatest footballing achievement so far, an Olympic Gold Medal in Tokyo.

At the start of the year, Priestman put pen to paper with the Canadian Soccer Association, signing a contract that will keep her in position through to the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.

Olympic History

Canada first qualified for the Olympics in 2008 travelling to Beijing and making it to the quarter-finals before being knocked out by the USA who would go on to win the gold medal. In 2012 they went to the London Games where they would play in one of the most iconic games in women’s football history, their semifinal match against the USA, where they lost 4-3 in a thrilling and controversial game. Canada would go on to win the bronze medal in 2012 for the first time defeating France 1-0.

They appeared in the 2016 Olympic games in Rio, where they swept the group stage, including defeating Germany for the first time in 22 years. Canada progressed through the quarterfinals after defeating France, but a defeat in a rematch with the Germans in the semifinal saw them sent to the third-place match again winning the bronze medal by defeating the Games’ host Brazil.

Most recently, Canada had their most successful Olympic tournament yet at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The games were delayed until 2021 due to the global pandemic, with Canada playing group games against Japan, Chile, and Great Britain.

Priestman’s side defeated Brazil in the quarterfinals on penalties, and the USA in the semifinal with a 1-0 win that marked their first win over their neighbours in 20 years. The final, played against Sweden ended in a 1-1- draw, and Canada eked out the win through penalties that ended 3-2 in their favour. This saw the North Americans win the gold medal for the first time in their federation’s history.

How they Qualified

Canada secured their place at the Paris 2024 Olympics through the CONCACAF Olympic Qualification Playoff, where they played a two-legged series against Jamaica. There were doubts regarding whether Canada would make it to Paris, as they had a disappointing World Cup run, compared to Jamaica’s unexpectedly strong performance. Canada won both games, 2-0, and 2-1, finishing with an aggregate score of 4-1, and a plane ticket to Paris.

Strengths

Canada routinely use the same back three in Kadeshia Buchanan, Jade Rose, and Vanessa Gilles, and by building this familiarity they have been able to develop strong working partnerships in defence. The choice to use a back three gives Priestman’s side the ability to focus more on attack with extra players available to pursue goal-scoring options.

Development Areas

Canada has options when it comes to scoring, plenty of them, but when it comes to creating a solid attacking partnership, they’re still just off the mark.

This is a relatively new problem for the nation, as having the greatest international scorer of all time Christine Sinclair, who made scoring look like child’s play for over a decade, but with her international career winding up at the end of 2023, and her pace struggling to beat younger defenders, Canada has had to find something new. It still doesn’t look like they’re any closer to finding a solution to the Sinclair-sized hole in their frontline, but they’re going to have to find one, and soon.

Key Players

Jessie Fleming

Above: Jessie Fleming celebrating at the last Olympics. Photo: Canada Soccer.

One of Canada’s most popular players, and is absolutely key to their success. Her work in central midfield allows Canada’s play to flow from the backline into attack. As the team’s current captain, Fleming embodies what it means to play for Canada and what it means to be a leader. Humble and driven, Fleming is a player who can always be found stepping up when her team needs her.

One to watch

Simi Awujo

Above: Young Canada star Simi Awujo. Photo: Canada Soccer.

While she’s only 20 and is still yet to play professionally, Awujo has come forward as an emerging star for Canada. Awujo was eligible to play for the United States (where she was born), Nigeria (where her parents were born), and Canada (where her mother is a citizen). With 17 appearances for Canada to her name, and a goal too, her vision in central midfield, passing ability, and physicality have made her almost indispensable to Canada, and she definitely has a bright future ahead of her.

Success would be

Gold. They’ve done it before, and are capable of doing so again.

Prediction

Canada should make it out of their group alongside France and provided they come playing to win and not playing it safe as they did at last year’s World Cup, they could go all the way. Given they have come away with a medal three times already, a podium place would not be surprising.

Fixtures

25th July Canada v New Zealand, 5pm, Stade Geoffroy-Guichard, Saint-Etienne.

28th July Canada v France, 9pm, Stade Geoffroy-Guichard, Saint-Etienne.

1st August Canada v Colombia, 9pm, Stade de Nice, Nice.

All kick-off times are French time.

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Nottingham Forest make the move to full-time

By Caitlin Kelly 13/7/24

Above: Nottingham Forest Women celebrating a goal in a team huddle Photo: Nottingham Forest Women Official Media

It was recently announced that National League North side Nottingham Forest Women will move to a full-time professional model from the 2025/26 season. This is such positive news for Forest, but what does this shift entail and what will it mean for the club?

By announcing the switch to a full-time professional model, the club’s owner, Evangelos Marinakis, will no doubt have ambitions of both Forest sides competing at the highest levels in football. 

For the upcoming 2024/25 season, the women’s first team will consist of eighteen full-time professional players, as well as a handful of part-time players to complete the squad. With the aim of becoming a fully professional team by the following season. Beginning with a split between full-time and part-time should seemingly make the transition a smooth one.

One aim of the full-time professional model is to aim for promotion to the Championship, before targeting the highest tier- the Women’s Super League. Forest narrowly missed out on promotion to the Championship two seasons ago after a 1-0 defeat by Watford in the play-off final, before the implementation of automatic promotion to both Northern and Southern Premier League winners.

The club has stated that with the change to this set-up involves a considerably increased amount of contracted time for the squad. As a result, the players will receive enhanced learning opportunities, allowing them to reach their full potential during their time at the club, both on and off the pitch. 

The squad being provided with access to and huge investment into high-end medical, nutritional, recovery and support systems. This therefore will expand the fitness as well as the health of the players, and as a result, should maximise the ability to perform well by the squad.

Furthermore, another change for the Women’s side, but this time academy level, is discarding the paid subscriptions for Girls’ Academy. This idea sprung from the aim for both the Boys’ and Girls’ Academy to be provided equal opportunities throughout the earlier stages of their footballing journey. 

In addition, Forest propose that contact time with the Academy players will notably increase to meet guidance from the FA for desirable talent development. The club also seeks to significantly develop grassroots girls’ football venues in the area as part of the ‘Vision for Sport’ initiative.

By removing barriers in the academy and at grassroots level, such as focusing on adding facilities in under-served areas of the city, young girls wanting to embark on the footballing journey can not only aspire to reach the professional level but also achieve that dream. These ideas also “aim to diversify the talent pool” coming through both academy and grassroots level and “cultivate homegrown Nottingham talent” states Nottingham Forest’s Head of Women & Girls Football, Amber Wildgust. This serves for a bright future for Women’s Football from grassroots all the way through to professional leagues.

Lastly, this ambitious vision sees Forest Women play all eleven league home games at the City Ground, providing the team and fans with elite facilities throughout the entirety of the season. This attendance capacity is a significant jump from their previous home, Grange Park, allowing the club to expand to a wider fan base and show off the entertainment provided by National League football. 

With recent close calls, this all allows Nottingham Forest to continue with their ambition on playing Women’s Football at the highest level.

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Sydney signs 17-year old NPL NSW star Amber Luchtmeijer

Above: Amber Luchtmeijer signs for the Sky Blues. Image: Sydney FC.

By Genevieve Henry (12/7/24).

The reigning A-League Women champions Sydney FC have bolstered their attacking line ahead of the 2024-25 season with the signing of 17-year old Amber Luchtmeijer.

“I’m super excited and overjoyed to be joining Sydney FC.” 

The young striker currently leads the National Premier League New South Wales (NPL NSW) golden boot charts, with 17 goals in 19 games. Since joining her current club, Bulls FC, from the Blacktown Spartans, she has been on fire. Luchtmeijer has the capability to score all kinds of goals; from solo runs to cheeky chips. 

Luchtmeijer has been playing football since she was five in the suburbs of Sydney. At age 14, she joined the Blacktown Spartans, where she began to make a name for herself, before moving on after enduring a tough relegation battle with the side. At the Bulls Academy, the young gun has grown into her boots and really put her name up in lights, even scoring a brace against her former club.

“To make the step up to the A-League is something I have dreamed of since the age of five and it’s just super exciting.” Luchtmeijer siad, “I’m looking forward to working in the professional space and against more of the girls that play there.”

On top of her football, the year-12 student has to make time to study for her exams, showing her determination and work ethic. In a previous interview she spoke of her excitement to finish school so that she can dedicate more time to football.

Sydney is the perfect club for Luchtmeijer, with not only it’s winning record and need for goals, but for youth development. Alongside fellow teenagers Indiana Dos Santos and Maddie Caspers to name a few, Luchtmeijer will hope to grow into a big name.

“Getting on the score sheet in the A-League would be pretty amazing but I just want to improve as a player and get used to performing in the professional space, but goals would definitely be a bonus.”

Luchtmeijer has spoken of her ambitions to be in contention for Young Matildas or even the Matildas. If she can thrive in Sky Blue, she’s well on her way. 

Sydney head coach Ante Juric believes Luchtmeijer is full of potential and star quality.

 “Amber is a star of the future in Sydney FC’s eyes, she is very quick, has an excellent eye for goal and finishes with great maturity.”

 “She is a natural goalscorer and has had a breakout year in the NPL.”

“She has a lot of potential and I believe she can step up to this level.”

Juric is known for developing talented young players into stars. Luchtmeijer will hope he can work his magic and help her turn into the next big thing. “I am looking forward to working with her and helping her to flourish into a confident A-League Women’s player.” 

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Gustavsson: “The one thing this team knows is that we can beat any team” 

Above: Tony Gustavsson speaking to the press. Image: Football Australia.

By Genevieve Henry (12/7/24).

Matildas head coach Tony Gustavsson spoke to the media today, sharing his thoughts of Australia’s hard work and mentality ahead of their Olympic warm-up match against Canada. 

“It’s been intense. Very intense.”

In preparation for the heat, the team has been training in Marbella in the south of Spain. “We’ve been training very, very hard, getting some heat acclimation to be ready to play in heat, but also we know how tight the schedule in the Olympics is, so we have to make sure we’re fit and in form.” Gustavsson said, but emphasised the importance of the balance between work and rest. “You don’t want to break them, you want to build them.”

With two of Australia’s defenders in tough spots with injury, Gustavsson shared that it’s still too early to say if captain Steph Catley and young gun Kaitlyn Torpey will be available for their first game in the Olympics against Germany. He was optimistic about Torpey in particular and hoped to get her some minutes in the upcoming matches. 

“It’s a great change, considering player welfare…” Gustavsson raved about the impact the new rule regarding alternates could make, especially if Torpey and Catley aren’t ready by the first match.  

“Before we even knew the rule change, we had already made the decision. Steph is with us. Everything we do is to make her available for the 25th. Even if there wasn’t a rule change, I would have kept her.” Gustavsson said, “It’s Steph Catley. It’s our captain.” 

Gustavsson spoke about the selection of Canada as their pre-Olympics opponent, highlighting the similarities “in terms of player profile, physicality, aggressiveness, speed in behind the back line” between the side and the USA and Germany in particular.

“Over the past year, we haven’t played as many games against top oppositions as we did leading into the World Cup.”

Coming off of a break, many players will have a harder time getting into tournament mode. “(A lot of the team) haven’t played a game in a long time, it’s against the Olympic champions, and we’re a little bit heavy-legged, so it will be a challenge, but that replicates what it will be like further (into) the tournament.”

“We’re gonna see a lot of rotation, a lot of subs in tomorrow’s game,” Gustavsson shared, after mentioning that the team will be tired going into the match. The teams agreed to use unlimited subs, so Gustavsson and Canada coach Bev Priestman can give their players a rest after full-on training camps.

“It’s all about preparing for the Olympics.” He said, “We need to approach it as though it is the Olympics. Otherwise, we don’t train the mental part of the game.”

Gustavsson talked about the balance of focusing on their first match, versus the rest of the group stage, saying, “All three group stage (matches) are important.” One of the hardest groups, the Tillies will have to contend with 2016 Olympic champs Germany, powerhouse USA, and dark horse Zambia. 

“We present all three group stage opponents, so they have an idea of what its gonna look like, so when you’re on the training park and you do different drills, you can always reference ‘okay, this will be good against that opponent…But now getting closer to it, it’s more focus on Germany, because it’s all about the opening game, mindset wise.” 

“You need to get out of the group. Once you get out of that group, anything can happen.”

“It’s very important that multiple players get playing time as well, ” he said, bringing up his ‘finishing eleven’ belief. “Every single player sitting on that bench is gonna have to be ready; tactically, mentally, and physically.”

Above: Cooney-Cross in Olympic preparation mode. Image: Rachel Bach, Football Australia.

“When you mention (Kyra Cooney-Cross and Mary Fowler), I think they (personify) the journey of this team. If you look at that first Olympics, Kyra Cooney-Cross had zero caps in Tokyo, I think Mary had three, and I think both of them are about 50 now. If you look at their journey, I think they represent the journey of this team, where we’re not only competing in major tournaments, we’re building depth in the roster.”

“They go in much more ready to take a bigger responsibility. Both Kyra and Mary can lead by the way they play. If you look at Cooney-Cross, she’s been consistent playing centre mid for us, that’s the heart, the engine of everything we do.”

“Then you look at Mary, who’s been phenomenal at the end of the season for Manchester City. Then for us, she’s also been good, but I want to make her great. It’s my job to make sure we find her more often, and that’s actually been a very, very important topic for us over these past ten days. How can we find Mary more in the game, how can we get her more involved, what players do we need around her…How can I utilise Mary more? When she’s on the ball, she can do things that very few players can do.”

“They should just be Kyra and Mary, because that’s when they are at their best.”

The Matildas have been working especially hard to form cohesion on the pitch, “No matter if it’s these two centre midfielders or those two…that everyone has an understanding of collectively what we wanna do, but individually, we want the players to be themselves.”

“It’s important that all those players get minutes in this game.”

“You know what it’s like in life, you get experiences that can’t be replicated in training. I think that the World Cup on home soil made them even better prepared for this tournament.”

“This is the fourth tournament for me with this team, so this team feels better prepared. A lot of these players have played together for a long time. The tactics we’ve done after the World Cup to have a base structure, as the building block, and work on developing that game style over a year going into this tournament. Hopefully I made them feel (that winning mentality), and I feel something similar. I feel there’s a vibe here, there’s a commitment, there’s a determination, and there’s a belief.”

“The players definitely feel prepared.”

“We know the Olympics is going to be tough. We’re not even ranked top eight, so in terms of ranking maybe we shouldn’t even make it to the quarterfinal, maybe on paper we are not the best team. But the one thing this team knows is that we can beat any team.” 

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Remi Allen takes charge as Southampton head coach

By Aimee Reynolds (12/07/2024)

Above: Remi Allen signs on the dotted line as Southampton’s new boss. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Southampton FC Women.

Southampton have appoint Remi Allen as Head Coach for the new Championship season after impressing at her recent spell with London City Lionesses, where she saved the side from relegation.

Even though this is Allen’s first full-time position as head coach, her work ethic is hard to match. The 33-year-old has also experienced being assistant coach for England Women Under- 23s during an England Elite Coaching Programme.

Allen’s words around joining the club were nothing but positive: “I am delighted to be on board with an incredible football club. It’s such an exciting time to be here, the club has huge ambition, and the group of players here are such a talented group.”

Above: Remi Allen unveiled as new Southampton head coach today. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Southampton FC Women.

Allen knows a good player when she sees one after having a 16-year playing career. With experiences ranging from the Women’s Super League to the Women’s Championship. “I can’t wait to get started on the journey; it’s going to be an exciting season ahead” spoke the new Head Coach.

Director of Women’s Football Marieanne Spacey-Cale stated: “We’re delighted to welcome Remi to the club as she becomes our new Head Coach, and we begin the next stage of our journey. Remi is an exciting young coach with both recent playing experience and a passion to succeed in the early stages of her transition to management.”

“She brings energy and fresh ideas that I believe our players will thrive on, and I look forward to seeing her begin working with the team ahead of the new season.”

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Matildas out to build on lessons learned from the World Cup

by Ben Gilby (12/7/24)

Above: Hayley Raso in training this week at the Matildas pre-Olympic camp in North Spain. Photo: Rachel Bach / Football Australia.

Whilst Australia have evolved their style and added depth to their squad since last year’s World Cup, attacker Hayley Raso feels that experiencing high pressure and overcoming adversity in ways like never before at last year’s tournament will be the key lessons that will assist the Matildas to head towards a medal at the Olympics.

Speaking to the media yesterday from the squad’s pre-Olympic training base in Marbella, the former Manchester City and Real Madrid star said: “Playing in the World Cup, we were able to feel what its like to play in these pressure moments, play in these big tournaments, so we kind of know where we are at with that, we know we can play under immense pressure.

“Coming into the Olympics now…you are always going to be playing a hard game, but for us we know there’s a medal on the line and that’s something we’re looking to achieve. Every game will be tough but we’re up and ready for it.”

Whilst the majority of the Matildas side have tasted the unique experience of an Olympic Games, this one is going to be very different from the last one in Tokyo, and Raso reflected on both the enormity and excitement of what is about to hit her and her team mates.

“The last Olympics for me was really special, it was my first, it was such an exciting time, but…with COVID it was a little bit different, playing in the stadiums and having no fans, none of our friends and family were there, so in terms of the actual tournament, it was a little bit different.

Above: Hayley Raso speaking to the media yesterday. Image: Football Australia.

“So for this time around, I’m really looking to having my family there, the fans, a little bit more of a different experience. Being an Olympian is such a special feeling, I think it’s something you dream about from a child, I did, so to be here, to be at my second Olympics and represent Australia and hopefully go one better (than fourth place last time) is something I’m looking forward to.”

Saturday evening (local time) sees the Matildas take on Canada in their final friendly before departing for France. Raso believes that playing a top quality opponent in the defending Gold medallists is vital to get Australia ready for the intensity of such a short tournament.

“It’s important to play a stronger team like Canada as we know in the Olympics there are no easy games, all the groups are tough, all the games are tough because there are not that many teams (12) so I suppose…it’s about going into that game freshening things up, working on things and we’ll peak for come the Olympics,” the attacker said.

As with the World Cup, Australia are heading into a major tournament with a question mark over the fitness of their captain. For Sam Kerr in 2023, read Steph Catley in 2024. A leg injury has kept the Arsenal star out of tomorrow’s game. Raso feels that whatever transpires, the Matildas have a plan for every eventuality.

“I know she (Catley) is on an individualised plan, working on that, so I think she’ll be trusting the guidelines of the physios and we’ll go from there.

“Injuries are part of football, it’s pretty normal to have players in and out. We are a good, strong, solid squad. No matter who is in the team or who is out of the team we know that whoever is playing in the moment will step up, it’s the same in training.”

Above: Hayley Raso celebrates after scoring against China last month. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

Raso comes into the Olympics on the back on less game time than she would have liked at Real Madrid, a club she departed at the end of the Liga F season. Despite that, the attacker has been a constant top performer in the national team and is confident of continuing her influential run for the Matildas.

“I’m feeling really good, really excited. It’s nice to finally be here, back with the girls where I feel most confident. Coming back off of the club, I was training hard and I had a nice little rest and refresh.

“Scoring goals is obviously a great thing. As a striker it’s something I want to do. Playing for the national team I’ve been able to do that a lot recently, and I think it’s really important in these moments, in these pressure games, in these high intensity games that I’m able to do that. Having players out, other players have to step up and I think a few of us have done that, but I hope to be able to continue that and get my first Olympics goal…

“When I think about my time at Real Madrid, I think about how much I enjoyed it. Going into a new environment, a new culture, and not speaking the language, I was nervous, but I felt like I really fitted in well there. Playing that style of football, obviously the Spanish won the World Cup, so the standard is so high, every game, every day in training, playing in the Champions League, all of those things were things I wanted to do, so I leave there very happy and content that I did all that I could.

“European football and the growth of it there has been huge, and it’s been amazing to see, and that’s why a lot of us are over there playing so we are able to be at a top level when we come into the national team.”

In terms of her next club move, Raso was tight lipped: “All of that will come into focus in due course, at the moment all my focus is on the Olympics. We’ve got this period now to prepare for that…I’ll sort all the rest out after that.”

Right now, The Matildas are lasering in sorting out their preparations for a medal at the Olympics, and you would not bet against them achieving that.

Images of Matildas training from Thursday from Rachel Bach / Football Australia

Keep an eye out for Impetus‘ detailed preview articles on every one of the nations competing at the Olympics Women’s Football competition, starting on the site tomorrow with the first Group A nation.

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Southampton sign goalkeeper Fran Stenson

by Morganna King (11/07/24)

Above: Fran Stenson signs on the dotted line for the Championship club. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Southampton FC Women

Fran Stenson has completed the move from Championship rivals Sheffield United to Southampton FC.

“We’re delighted to welcome Fran to the club, and looking forward to seeing the strong competition she will add to our goalkeeping group” Director of Women’s Football, Marieanne Spacey-Cale voiced about Stenson.

The England youth international made 25 appearances for Sheffield United in the 22/23 season. Being only 23 years old, Stenson has a myriad of experience under her belt already. She made her professional debut in 2017 for Birmingham City in the WSL and has since then signed for clubs such as Arsenal, Blackburn Rovers and Manchester City.

Above: Happy to be a Saint – Fran Stenson. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Southampton FC Women.

Fran Stenson is also joined at Southampton FC by her former teammate at the Blades; Tara Bourne. This signing makes the fourth arrival of the summer transfer window for the club. “I’m really happy to get the deal done.” Stenson said. “I feel like the club has high ambitions which align with mine and I think it’s going to be a very exciting season.”

“I think it’s going to be a very competitive group, we’ve got great keepers and I think we can all learn off each other. They can definitely raise my game and I can definitely raise theirs – that’s a really important part to have so we can push on.” The 24/25 campaign is set to be an exciting one for The Saints who placed sixth last season.

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Matildas build-up to Canada clash

Above: Kyra Cooney-Cross captured during training this week in Marbella. Photo: Rachel Bach / Football Australia.

by Ben Gilby (11/7/24)

Australia have continued their preparations for Sunday evening’s (local time) final pre-Olympic friendly with Canada in Marbella by bringing Winonah Heatley into the squad for the game after injuries have impacted Steph Catley and Kaitlyn Torpey.

Whilst Heatley cannot be part of the squad or alternates list for the Olympics as they have already been submitted, she can provide cover and play for this match only as it falls within a FIFA international window.

Catley and Torpey are both nursing lower leg injuries – Torpey’s was sustained in her final game for San Diego Wave before coming into the camp whilst Catley was already managing the niggle.

Heatley has been in influential form with her Danish side FC Nordsjælland, captaining them to their first Elitedivisionen title, scoring a decisive goal in the final match of the season to clinch the league. Days later she completed the double as the club lifted the Danish Cup to claim a historic feat.

There is no suggestion at this time that either Catley or Torpey will miss the Olympics.

More images from this week’s Matildas training by Rachel Bach, supplied to Impetus by Football Australia:

Keep an eye out for Impetus‘ detailed preview articles on every one of the nations competing at the Olympics Women’s Football competition, starting on the site this Saturday.

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