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Olympics Preview: New Zealand

by Denise Duffy and Jonathon Hagger

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.

Midfielders: Katie Bowen, Grace Jale, Malia Steinmetz, Katie Kitching, Milly Clegg, Macey Fraser.

Forwards: Jacqui Hand, Gabi Rennie, Indiah-Paige Riley.

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!

CANADA: https://impetusfootball.org/2024/07/13/olympics-preview-canada-2/

FRANCE: https://impetusfootball.org/2024/07/14/olympics-preview-france/

COLOMBIA: https://impetusfootball.org/2024/07/15/olympics-preview-colombia/

Follow Impetus on social media –

Twitter (X): @impetusfootball TikTok: @impetusfootball
Facebook: @impetuswomensfootball Instagram: @impetusfootball

Lionesses Prepare for tonight’s final Euros Group Qualifier

By Rachel Cohen in Göteborg for Impetus 16/7/2024

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.

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NPLW Vic: Preston score seven

Bentleigh Greens FC 1 -7 Preston Lions

By Joe Rosedon 15/7/24

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 21^stgoal 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 12^th 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.

Olympics Preview: Colombia

by Emily Wyatt (15/7/24)

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.

Squad

Goalkeepers: Catalina Perez, Katherine Tapia.

Defenders: Carolina Arias, Daniela Caracas, Manuela Vanegas, Jorelyn Carabali, Daniela Arias, Angela Baron, Yirleidis Minota.

Midfielders: Daniela Montoya, Leicy Santos, Marcela Restrepo, Liana Salazar, Ilana Izquierdo.

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

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 11^th 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 11^th 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

25^th July, Colombia v France, 9pm, Groupama Stadium, Lyon.

28^th July, Colombia v New Zealand, 5pm Groupama Stadium, Lyon.

31^st 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!

CANADA: https://impetusfootball.org/2024/07/13/olympics-preview-canada-2/

FRANCE: https://impetusfootball.org/2024/07/14/olympics-preview-france/

Follow Impetus on social media –

Twitter (X): @impetusfootball TikTok: @impetusfootball
Facebook: @impetuswomensfootball Instagram: @impetusfootball

NPLW WA 2024 Round 14 Review

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

In-depth

Click on this link to read Ben Gilby’s report of the Hyundai NTC v Perth RedStar game, published on the site on Saturday: https://impetusfootball.org/2024/07/13/red-hot-redstars-magnificent-seven/

Round wrap

Balcatta Etna 6-0 UWA-Nedlands

**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

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.

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Facebook: @impetuswomensfootball Instagram: @impetusfootball

Olympics Preview: France

by Jean-Pierre Thiesset (14/7/24)

Above: France gather for their home Olympic Games. Photo: French National Women’s Team Twitter.

The France women’s national football team is nicknamed Les Bleues and ranked second in the world.

Squad

Goalkeepers: Pauline Peyraud-Magnin, Constance Picaud.

Defenders: Selma Bacha, Estelle Cascarino, Elisa De Almeida, Sakina Karchaoui, Maëlle Lakrar, Griedge MBock, Wendie Renard.

Midfielders: Sandy Baltimore, Kenza Dali, Grace Geyoro, Amandine Henry, Sandie Toletti.

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

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

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

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

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

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!

CANADA: https://impetusfootball.org/2024/07/13/olympics-preview-canada-2/

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Red hot RedStar’s magnificent seven

Hyundai NTC 1-7 Perth RedStar

by Ben Gilby (13/7/24)

Above: Perth RedStar seen in the huddle earlier in the season – the defending champions produced a super display this afternoon against Hyundai NTC. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Denyse McCulloch.

Perth RedStar put the NTC to the sword at Sam Kerr Football Centre this afternoon with four goals in a devastating 12 second-half minutes demonstrating their ruthlessness as they look to retain their NPLW WA title.

This was a performance that immediately allayed any fear that a game less than 72 hours previously might make the champions’ legs heavy. Carlos Vega Mena’s side took their chances when they were dominating and indeed, could have racked up even more goals if not for some great saves from Megan Phillips and being denied by the woodwork.

The home side were able bring Ischia Brooking onto the bench after Western Sydney Wanderers announced they had released her on Friday afternoon. Brooking became the youngest-ever player to appear in the A-League Women last season at the age of just 14 years and 347 days, and is a sensational talent. NTC head coach Ben Anderton was also able to bring dangerous attacker Klaudia Houlis back into the starting lineup.

RedStar, fresh from a 3-0 win at Balcatta Etna in Wednesday night’s State Cup semi-final had Carla Bennett in their starting lineup to record her 300th appearance for the club as Northern Redbacks/Perth RedStar – a outstanding achievement from a superb servant of the Western Australian game.

NTC looked to impose their intricate passing structure on proceedings from the start but had real challenges to use it effectively as RedStar’s rapid press made it nigh on impossible for the teenagers to make any progress. Consequently, it was a first 10 minutes full of transitions in play.

From one such turn-over, Olivia Wood intercepted a pass just inside the NTC half and lifted a shot just over the top. The attacker was following up her superb display in last weekend’s league win at Balcatta Etna with another influential performance.

The home side could point to the efforts of Sakura Leong’s wide play and Theodora Mouithys’ presence and energy, but their impact was reduced by both the RedStar press and their team’s problems in producing telling passes in the final third.

With a quarter of an hour played, the visitors came the closest so far. Reina Kagami’s corner on the right was flicked by Mischa Anderson and played back by Quyen Doan for Bennett to hit an effort just wide.

However, RedStar had better luck just minutes later. Another Kagami corner came in high and was initially cleared by the NTC, but only as far as Momoko Sakairi to fire back into the mix for Manami Arai to hit a stunning shot with the outside of her foot that came back off of the bar for Doan to pounce on to put the visitors ahead.

Within two minutes, the defending champions doubled their advantage. Home goalkeeper Megan Phillips played a clearance out which was snaffled up by Kagami to lift a sensational shot from almost 40 yards straight into the net.

GOAL! 21:00

Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for Perth Redstar W in the Hyundai NTC W vs Perth Redstar W match at Sam Kerr Football Centre.

Latest score: 0-2 pic.twitter.com/BCvmXY8WkO
— Football West (@FootballWest) July 13, 2024

The NTC responded well and produced their most consistent period of possession and territory in the game. Harper Collinson was looking to bring others into the play, and Houlis was popping up across the front third at will, lively, full of lovely turns and clever footwork.

Four minutes before the end of regular time in the half, Leong gathered possession and turned outside the box to hit a shot just wide of the right-hand post. Sarah Carroll would see an effort go narrowly wide for the visitors shortly afterwards.

Then, with three minutes of stoppage time played, the home side got a reward for their efforts. They were awarded a free-kick around 10 yards outside the box to the right for handball. Nelli Johnson curled in a superb set piece towards space at the back post for Hannah Collins to head home.

GOAL! 47:35

Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for Hyundai NTC W in the Hyundai NTC W vs Perth Redstar W match at Sam Kerr Football Centre.

Latest score: 1-2 pic.twitter.com/zBnhgR2gwK
— Football West (@FootballWest) July 13, 2024

There was still time for another goal before the interval – and it would prove to be game-breaking. Perth RedStar are a champion team for many reasons – one of which is that they always take their chances at the most crucial points in matches, and five minutes into stoppage time they struck.

Olivia Wood was found with a perfectly judged ball through into space, she turned her defender in the box and curled a sumptuous effort into the right-hand top corner of the net.

RedStar would continue to dominate the chances in the second period. They were able to play the crucial passes and control possession in a way that the NTC couldn’t consistently manage.

Seven minutes into the second period, Sakairi turned her marker and threaded a pass through into the box for Kagami to hit a shot from a central position that Phillips parried away. Shortly afterwards, the same duo went one on one again, with Phillips saving at the cost of a corner.

There then followed a killer period of four RedStar goals in the space of just 12 minutes. Olivia Wood continued her excellent performance by claiming her second of the afternoon.

Next, a brilliantly executed ball through enabled Arai to advance to the edge of the six-yard box and fire a shot through Phillips and in. No more than 60 seconds later it would be 6-1 as Ridley gained possession on the right, beat Chloe Gaspar, and cut in to supply substitute Renee Leota to side foot home into the right-hand corner.

GOAL! 72:59

Goal in the NPLWA – Women's competition for Perth Redstar W in the Hyundai NTC W vs Perth Redstar W match at Sam Kerr Football Centre.

Latest score: 1-6 pic.twitter.com/Kke9crqOU4
— Football West (@FootballWest) July 13, 2024

RedStar continued to push, and they were denied by a brilliant double save by Phillips with just under 15 minutes remaining. She first produced a superb dive to stop Ridley’s effort and then denied Leota’s follow-up.

However, moments later the NTC keeper was beaten as a RedStar corner from the left was initially cleared, but came back into the mix for Ridley to get up highest to head home.

RedStar had one further chance when Mischa Anderson broke through on the left-hand edge of the area and saw her shot come cannoning back off of the post.

This was another demonstration of the ruthless nature of Perth RedStar – they could have had double figures if not for Phillips’ saves and the woodwork. If any of the chasing pack needed a reminder of the huge importance of taking chances when they come in order to defeat RedStar they just need to watch this game back to see the consequences and a team scoring goals when they have the upper hand.

The NTC will come back from this and with the likes of Brooking, Cuthbert, and Houlis back in a very young and talented squad, things can get better as the weeks go by.

Teams: HYUNDAI NTC: Phillips, C. Gaspar, N. Johnson, Cuthbert, Collinson, O’Halloran, Collins, Mouithys, Houlis, Tana, Leong. Substitutes: Clayton, E. Gaspar, Brooking, Skinner, Britton, Healey, Rennie.

Scorer: Collins 45+3′.

PERTH REDSTAR: Dal Busco, Woolley, Dunn, Anderson, Doan, Bennett, Sakairi, Kagami, Arai, Wood, Carroll. Substitutes: Ridley, Ritchie, Leota, Finnegan, Odonohoe.

Scorers: Doan 19′, Kagami 21′, Wood 45+5′, 65′. Arai 72′, Leota 73′, Ridley 77′.

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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.

A late inclusion into the Starting XI, Sharn Freier finds the opener in her first start for Australia! 💥

🎥: @ParamountPlusAU #Matildas #TilitsDone #AUSvCAN pic.twitter.com/dQX4tnqilW
— CommBank Matildas (@TheMatildas) July 13, 2024

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

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

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

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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