Above: Canadian legend Christine Sinclairwho will be going all out to add to her world record tally of goals at the World Cup at the age of 40. Photo: City News, Toronto.
This time, I want to spotlight some notable legends who might be having their last dance on the world stage over the coming weeks.
Christine Sinclair
When the Canadian scored her first goal against Norway on the 14th of March 2000, no one would predict that she would go ahead to score another 189 goals, and she will be looking to add to this tally in Australia.
An Olympic gold medallist, two-time Olympic bronze medallist, CONCACAF champion, and 14-time winner of the Canada Soccer Player of the Year award, Sinclair is the world’s all-time leader for international goals male or female, and the 40-year-old legend will be looking to add to her laurels.
Having led the team to multiple successes and scored noticeable goals for Canada, including the famous hat trick against the USA at the London Olympics in 2012, Sinclair will be hoping that her goals will pilot the Canadians to the final and hopefully pick up a medal. But first, they have to come out of the group that has the host, the African queens, and a really exciting debutant in the Republic of Ireland.
Onome Ebi
Above: Nigerian star Onome Ebi. Photo: This Day Live.
Dependable, dogged, and reliable are the adjectives that describe Nigeria’s captain. Having played three decades of football, the 40-year-old defender will be the oldest player at the World Cup 2023.
A serial winner, Onome has been part of the Super Falcons team that dominated Africa over the last two decades, winning the WAFCON four times within this period. Known for her defensive coordination and aerial prowess, she will be hoping her team puts up a memorable performance for her last dance as she leads the team to their eighth consecutive appearance.
Megan Rapinoe
Above: Megan Rapinoe will be going all out to claim another World Cup. Photo: Guardian.
When she announced her retirement, the world went agog! The winner of the Ballon d’Or Féminin and The Best FIFA Women’s Player in 2019 has been a major force on and off the pitch for the USWNT and her last ride will be a delight to behold.
Despite the wealth of new attacking talents in the US team, Rapinoe is still a key part of the defending champions’ offensive play. Her work from the wing and quick-footed movements in the midfield are traits the team will revel in when required.
Whether she is starting a match, or coming on from the bench, the world will be excited to watch Rapinoe for one last World Cup, and if the team is to have a shot at a history-making three-peat, then the star will play a crucial role to make this lofty dream come to life.
Noko Matlou
Above: South African heroine Noko Matlou. Photo: IOL.
She might not be a globally renowned name, but Noko Alice Matlou is a heroine in her continent, and her country of South Africa sings great praises of her. The winner of the CAF African Women’s Player of the Year in 2008, Noko is one of the few players that have had successful careers in two entirely different positions – a striker and a defender.
She played as a striker between 2009 and 2014 before being deployed as a defender by the Dutch maestro Vera Paw. Having won the WAFCON for the first time last year July, at 38, Noko will hope to lead the Bayana-Bayana to a performance better than their debut display.
Marta
Above: Marta – arguably the greatest of all time. Photo: AP Photo/Francisco Seco.
Often regarded as the greatest female football player of all time, Marta Veira Da Silva has imprinted her name in the heart of all and sundry. The 37-year-old playmaker popularized female football with her dazzling skills, samba-like movement and clinical goals.
With 17 goals, Marta holds the record for most goals scored in the FIFA Womens World Cup tournament and was the first footballer of any gender to score at five World Cup editions,a feat matched by Christine Sinclair in 2019 and Cristiano Ronaldo in 2022.
Marta ruled the female football world in the 2010s, winning five consecutive FIFA Player of the Year awards during the period. She would be hoping to cap an illustrious career with a shot at the trophy every player longs to win.
Are there any players we missed out on? Which of these players are you excited to watch?
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Above: Germany – lining up for another bid for World Cup glory. Photo: Her Football Hub.
Germany, who hosted the 2011 tournament, will be a strong contender, and their coach, Martina Voss-Tecklenburg, has announced a strong squad for this summer’s tournament.
Midfielders: Jule Brand, Sara Däbritz, Chantal Hagel, Lena Lattwein, Melanie Leupolz, Sydney Lohmann, Lina Magull, Lena Oberdorf.
Forwards: Lea Schüller, Alexandra Popp, Laura Freigang, Svenja Huth, Klara Bühl, Nicole Anyomi.
Head Coach
Above: Germany head coach Martina Voss-Tecklenburg. Photo: DFB.
Germany are led by 55-year-old Martina Voss-Tecklenburg a legend of the women’s game. During her time as a player, she played for KBC Duisburg, TVS Siegen, and FCR 2001. For the national team, Voss-Tecklenburg represented Germany 125 times. She appeared at three World Cups (1991, 1995, and 1999) as well as the 1996 Olympic Games.
Voss-Tecklenburg has won the Euros four times (1989, 1991, 1995, and 1997) from five attempts. In 2009 she managed FCR 2001 Duisburg to UEFA Women’s Cup (now known as the Champions League) glory before going on to lead FF USV Jena. She led the Swiss national team from 2012-2018, taking them to the last sixteen in their first appearance at a World Cup in 2015. Voss-Tecklenburg also ensured qualification for Switzerland for their first European Championships in 2017. She took over as Germany’s national head coach in 2019 and led them to the Euros Final last summer in England.
World Cup History
The Germans have an illustrious World Cup history to go alongside their eight European Championship victories. The DFB-Frauen are two times FIFA Women’s World Cup winners having won the title in 2003 and 2007.
Qualifying
Germany sailed through European qualifying losing just once. They finished Group H with 27 points, five clear of second-place Portugal who went into the playoffs. The Germans had an eye for goal, scoring 47 times and only conceding five.
Strengths
Going forward, everyone knows what Germany is capable of – scoring goals. They have so many options and with their strikers having great seasons there should be no difference this summer from usual. Germany is a threat.
Development Areas
Germany had a very good qualifying campaign, winning all but one game (a 3-2 defeat to Serbia in April 2022) but if they are to go all the way to clinch a third world title they will have to solidify their game at the back. Recent losses to USA and Brazil in the last two international windows will mean a bit of concern creeping into the back of German minds.
Key Player
Above: Alexandra Popp celebrating during Germany’s run to the final of the European Championships last year. Photo: Euro 2022.
Alexandra Popp. The captain of Germany has had a splendid season at Wolfsburg netting 24 goals in all competitions. Add the six she bagged in the Euros last summer and it shows Popp has had a fine year.
One to watch
Lea Schüllerhas had yet another fine season for Bayern Munich scoring 19 goals in all competitions and will be looking to take that scoring form into the World Cup this year.
Success would be
A place in the last four.
Prediction
Latter stages. Germany will want to go one better than last summer as they just missed out on glory losing in extra time to England’s Lionesses. Expect them to yet again be in the last eight.
Above: Lea Schüller – one of Germany’s stars. Photo: Richard Callis.
Group H Fixtures
24th July – Morocco, AAMI Park, Melbourne.
30th July – Colombia, Sydney Football Stadium.
3rd August – South Korea, Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane.
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Above: Argentina battle against Colombia in the knock-out stages of the Copa Américalast year. Photo: Inside The Games
Argentine soccer continues to celebrate after the World title won last winter in the men’s world cup, and now the Argentine women’s team will try to continue with the mysticism and magic. The South American side are in a good place, and they will seek to have a historic result in their fourth World Cups.
Above: Argentina head coach Germán Portanova. Photo: Coaches’ Voice.
Germán Portanova. This 49-year-old has a long career in women’s soccer. He is a three-time champion with UAI Urquiza in the Argentine professional league and has led the national team since July 2021. He led his nation to the 2023 World Cup by obtaining third place in the 2022 Copa América.
World Cup Record
Argentina first qualified in 2003, and there was nothing outstanding for them in the tournament hosted in the USA. They suffered three defeats – 6-0 against Japan (Japan’s biggest victory in the World Cup), 3-0 to Canada, and 6-1 defeat against eventual champions Germany. That final match did see the first goal in the World Cup for Argentina, thanks to Yanina Gaitán after 71 minutes.
In their second participation, in China 2007, they fared much worse, suffering a humiliating 11-0 defeat against Germany, followed by two further losses – 1-0 against Japan (the goal coming in the 90th minute), at minute 90, and 6-1 defeat to England.
Last time round in France, Argentina achieved their first point in history, with a 0-0 draw against Japan. A Jodie Taylor goal saw England defeat them 1-0 before their incredible final group game with Scotland. Here, the Albicelestes were 3-0 with 21 minutes remaining. Yet, goals from Milagros Menéndez, an own goal, and then, four minutes into stoppage time, Florencia Bonsegundo equalised to earn the South American side their second point of the tournament.
How they qualified
By finishing third at the Copa América last summer. The Albiceleste finished second in their group, behind Brazil. In their first opportunity to qualify, they lost 1-0 against the hosts Colombia. But they grabbed their second chance, they came from behind with 12 minutes to go to defeat Paraguay 3-1 thanks to two goals from Yamila Rodríguez, and one from Florencia Bonsegundo.
Strengths
Argentina have only had two losses since they got their World Cup ticket. They are a team in every sense of the word, accompanied by good players, and a powerful striker, with Mariana Larroquete, Yamila Rodríguez, and Florencia Bonsegundo, all playing in leagues outside their country.
Development Points
There is still a lack of experience playing against top-level opposition outside of their own continent that will need to be overcome for Argentina to gain a place in the knock-out stages.
Key Player
Above: Estafania Banini. Photo: Infobae.
Estefania Banini, the 32-year-old player with Atletico Madrid. Banini’s last-minute goal in the Spanish Cup Final in June took the game to penalties – which her side would go on to win. She is a fine midfielder, and a player who leads her team. Banini is precise, talented, and full of character. Among her achievements, Banini has a Libertadores Cup, and multiple Chilean league titles to go with her recent Spanish Cup winners’ medal, in addition to previous experience at the World Cup.
Success would be
Qualifying for the second round would be a resounding success, but you have to take it step by step, and success for Argentina in this World Cup would be to get its first victory in the tournament.
Prediction
Argentina will fight, but they won’t get out of the group. I can see them achieving their first win, or gaining two draws and a loss once more. Coming away with a win against South Africa could set up a thrilling last group game.
Group G Fixtures
24th July – Italy, Eden Park, Auckland.
28th July – South Africa, Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin.
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Above: Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson and defender Ellie Carpenter were all smiles at today’s media conference. Image: Football Australia.
Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson has encouraged Matildas fans to treat the friendly against France as a celebration of football.
Australia will play their final game before the World Cup against the fifth-ranked side, with over 50,000 fans expected to attend.
The occasion will be a grand one, setting a new record for a stand alone women’s football match, although one that will be broken just seven days later when The Matildas face The Republic of Ireland in the opening game of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
It is that game that remains the focus of Gustavsson’s staff and players and the send-off match will be treated as a chance for the players to enjoy the support of a home crowd, for Gustavsson to tinker with tactics and for the team to get some valuable game time together.
“Obviously a game like this, a send-off game before a World Cup is different from any other game,” Gustavsson told the media. “This is about the opening game against Ireland.
“Tomorrow will be an amazing opportunity to celebrate women’s football, to celebrate football, and to celebrate what we have achieved already.
“What the federation has been able to do with the Matildas program, what the players have been able to do in terms of everything from creating depth that we have invested in for over two years, playing top European opposition.
Above: Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson today. Image: Football Australia.
“Tomorrow will be more than the 90 minutes of football. It doesn’t mean that we don’t want to perform well, but it’s a very different perspective going into the game tomorrow.”
Gustavsson was joined by Ellie Carpenter. Spirits seemed high and both shared a laugh about Carpenter’s goal and celebration during training.
“I’m really excited. Obviously, another game representing my country is always an honour. Like Tony said this is the last game, our send off game before the World Cup. What better way to do it than a sold-out stadium in Melbourne?
“It’s extra special for me, I get to play against some of my teammates who I know so well. I’m excited to see them and I can’t wait for the battle.”
Earlier in the day, Football Australia CEO James Johnson expressed his delight at the scale of the event.
“We are absolutely delighted but not surprised to see this Send-Off match sell out,” he said through Football Australia.
“The Matildas are a team that resonates with all Australians as one of the most popular national teams in the country, and we have witnessed the rapid growth in both general interest and attendances over the past four years. This is a testament to the hard work of so many both on and off the field.”
For the manager, this is a final chance to tinker. There will likely be a risk-free approach to the game with Gustavsson suggesting that his decisions about personnel would be different if it was a quarter-final in a tournament.
Above: Ellie Carpenter is enthused for tomorrow’s battle against many of her Olympique Lyonnais team mates. Image: Football Australia.
Kyah Simon is not expected to feature. The long-injured forward is on a separate training program with a view to being able to contribute in the later stages of the tournament should Australia make it that far.
“I wish we could play all the players tomorrow,” said Gustavsson. “That would be like a dream scenario to go first half-second half and make sure everyone gets some game time. But there’s limited amount of subs, it’s an official FIFA game. We want as many players as possible to get game minutes tomorrow.”
Gustavsson hinted at some tactical surprises, to keep the opposition guessing during the tournament and to explore new solutions for his own team.
“There’s going to be throwing some curve balls out there for the opposition to deal with come the World Cup. But then also have consistency in what we’ve done and believe in what we’ve done for years now.
“I also think it’s important to be able to deal with the mental part of the game tomorrow. To be able to connect with all the fans. It’s a little bit more of a celebration game in that sense. Not that we don’t care about performing well but it will be a different game.”
There are multiple reasons why this game has sold out. The Matildas are iconic and are role models on a range of issues, many separate from football. This World Cup is an opportunity for many of them to leave a legacy that is bigger than football should they so wish.
Gustavsson does not see any of this as a distraction from the task at hand. This is added motivation.
“These players are amazing in a sense that their ‘why’ is bigger than 90 minutes of football,” said the beaming coach.
“As long as they get to play for their ‘why’ it’s going to inspire them, it’s going to motivate them, it’s going to drive them and it’s going to help them perform. I’ve seen that over years now and I’m just extremely privileged to be just a small part of that.
“As a coach I see the inner drive and the passion in these amazing players, but moreso these amazing women. They use it as fuel to play football.”
Tiff Williams’ photo gallery of today’s Matildas training at Marvel Stadium via Football Australia:
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Above: Italy celebrate their qualification after edging out Switzerland for an automatic spot at the World Cup. Photo: FIFA.
The Italian Women’s National Team, known as Le Azzure (The Blues) are a rising team in the world of women’s football. They have always been a steadily growing team on the European stage, but have yet to make a real impression at a World Cup. They will aim to go one step further than their 2019 Quarter Final exit this summer.
Squad
Goalkeepers: Rachele Baldi (Fiorentina), Francesca Durante (Inter), Laura Giuliani (Milan).
Defenders: Elisa Bartoli (Roma), Lisa Boattin (Juventus), Lucia Di Guglielmo (Roma), Martina Lenzini (Juventus), Elena Linari (Roma), Benedetta Orsi (Sassuolo), Cecilia Salvai (Juventus).
Above: Milena Bertolini – Italy’s head coach. Photo: FIFA.
Under the management of the remarkable Milena Bertolini, this team has continued to raise its status in the sport. Bertolini has a long history of playing and coaching in Italy and she has a high level of familiarity with many of her players. In Serie A Femminile, she has won the prestigious Panchina d’Oro, given to the coach of the season, on six occasions for two different clubs. Bertolini also led them to qualify for their first World Cup in 20 years after she was appointed in 2017. She is an asset to her team and her country, as a member of the Italian Football Hall of Fame, Bertolini is important to this team.
How they qualified
Italy qualified after topping Europe’s qualifying Group G. They won nine of the 10 matches in a tense battle with Switzerland to grab the automatic qualification spot. Italy’s 1-0 win over the Swiss in Thun was decisive.
Key Players
Le Azzure are a team with standout players all over the pitch. Starting in the back, Elena Linari is a strong centre-back who has helped to lead her club team, Roma, to glory. She was absolutely excellent and vital for the team to win their first Serie A title. Linari has been playing for her country for 10 years and will hope to achieve even more this summer to make her year even more spectacular.
Moving up, Arianna Caruso is a magician in the midfield, having scored 10 goals in just 22 appearances for her country. The 23-year-old is the youngest woman to make 100 appearances for Juventus. With lightning pace and the ability to play out wide, she could very well be the key for Le Azzure this summer. She has so much potential and she could very well begin to shine even brighter in Australia and New Zealand at the 2023 World Cup.
Above: Cristiana Girellicelebrates her hat trick against Jamaica in the last World Cup. Photo: Sporting News.
Up front, Cristiana Girelli is one of the best players in Italian history. She was recently inducted into the Italian Football Hall of Fame, alongside Bertolini, which just shows the impact she has had on the game in a country still developing their women’s football culture, community, and conditions. Girelli has appeared just over 100 times for her country, and in those appearances, she has scored 53 goals. She has World Cup experience, scoring a hat trick against Jamaica in the 2019 edition.
One to watch
Italy hosts some of the most promising names in football. One special talent is Giulia Dragoni a 16-year-old midfielder who made history by being the first-ever female player from outside of Spain to train and live at Barcelona academy La Masia. Dragoni could be one of the youngest players in the whole tournament and will use this opportunity to soak in the knowledge and experience of all the talented players around her, as well as hone her abilities. She has the world at her feet. What can she take from this World Cup opportunity?
Above: Giulia Dragoni – a huge talent of her generation. Photo: Emmanuele Ciancaglini
Strengths
Italy has a rigid defensive line, rarely allowing easy balls to get through and working hard against all the world’s best strikers. They are a team that can excel on and off the ball, pressing high and finding themselves in good positions.
Development Areas
They struggle with consistency and tournament football. They finished at the bottom of their group at Euro 2022 in a group they should have easily been able to make it out of, comparing the resources and player pool at their disposal.
Success would be
Milena Bertolini has said that they just aim to get out of the group stage, but they would be hungry for more than that. They have made it to the quarter-finals in the past and will know they have what it takes to reach that stage.
Prediction
Round of Sixteen. They could do better, but with the mentality of just making it out of the group, that very well could be all they can achieve. The other teams around them may prove to be stronger and more experienced.
Group G Fixtures
24th July – Argentina, Eden Park, Auckland.
29th July – Sweden, Sky Stadium, Wellington.
2nd August – South Africa, Sky Stadium, Wellington.
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Impetus has sponsored Ashford Town (Middx) hotshot Ashley Cheatley for several seasons now. She recently spoke to Ben Gilby aboutthe club’s first season in the FA Women’s National League, close season changes at the club, and aims for next season(12/7/23).
Ashley Cheatley has been a key part of the Ashford Town (Middx) squad that has risen rapidly up the leagues, scoring a hat full of goals along the way. This rise culminated in their first-ever campaign in the FA Women’s National League (FAWNL)for 2022/23.
Looking back at that first campaign in tier four, Cheatley said: “The biggest positives from the season was being able to retain our position in the league, we finished around mid-table and were able to compete among other clubs which is always a challenge for anyone being promoted into a new league. Our biggest challenge I’d say is where we have been so used to winning in our club’s history, we had to adapt that when results don’t go our way, how we as a team bounce back and kick on for the next game.
“To be fair, the league below was a challenge and we had to work hard to finish top and achieve the way we did. The football, fitness, and professionalism in the FAWNL is a step up, with teams already having the experience and knowledge of other opponents we had to adapt quickly.”
Above: Flying through on goal – Ashley Cheatley for Ashford Town (Middx) last season. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Ashley Cheatley.
The FAWNL Division One South-East is a notoriously tough league, not helped by the fact that there is only one promotion spot available, and for the striker, it’s a league full of quality.
“I think it’s a very high standard, you have a lot of players who have had experience in higher divisions and have clubs that have the set-up to go on and improve, it is a highly competitive league, and to have one promotion spot makes the league even more competitive.”
Ashford’s success in comfortably retaining their tier four status was tinged by the departure of head coach and chairman Will Boye, who founded the club and was a major influence on Cheatley. She reflected on how the news of his departure hit the team.
“Will had worked hard and put a lot of his time and effort into Ashford and we will always be appreciative of that. I’ve known Will since I signed for Brentford in 2013 and he’s always been supportive of me and believed in me to be the player I set out to be.
“When it was announced I think the players were shocked, we had to kick on without him for the first time in the club’s history, but to be fair, the players and coaches came together to make it work, and quickly. It showed a lot of character.”
Above: Ashley Cheatley in possession for Ashford Town (Middx). Photo supplied to Impetus by: Ashley Cheatley.
The close season has seen the announcement of a formal partnership between the club’s men’s and women’s teams for the first time, as well as the appointment of Adam Frailing as head coach. The striker believes that both developments can only help the club continue to blossom.
“It’s been quite a busy transition for our coaches, Adam, and the club in general, preparing for everything we need so we can be successful and grow. With Adam now being our manager, he knows the girls and how good players are, he’s demanding in what he expects of us and will drive us to work hard to see results.
“Adam has a plan and knows what he wants from us so we can achieve, we know we have to work even harder than we did last season to make it happen and with new recruitment within our structure, it will allow us to be able to do that.”
With the club establishing themselves in a league that has a number of women’s teams from EFL men’s clubs in it, Cheatley is clear what the Tangerines need to do to continue their upward trajectory.
“Ashford need to make sure to keep on top with investing into women’s football. Its been evident especially last season with teams not being able to sustain their place in the league due to the lack of support (Wymondham Town and Hounslow withdrew from the FAWNL Division One SE during 2022/23) and those who do have the support excelling in the league. It’s important we keep our club expectations the same from staff down to players and have people amongst us who support and want to drive us to the next level.”
The striker has already set herself some targets for the new season. “Personally, I need to score more goals than I did last season, it just simply was not enough and I know I can do a lot better, but you want to improve and hit the next level that I can.
“For the club, I think if we work hard from the off and give 100% on the pitch, we can push on and finish a lot stronger in both the league and cup competitions, we’re a team who want to win and achieve things at the highest standard, so we’d like to finish with a trophy, or two…”
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Above: Heidelberg United’s Katrina Nikpour (right) and Preston Lions’ Ella Mastrantonio battle for possession. Photo: Jack Dilks
Maja Markovski and Kurea Okino scored hatricks, Kaitlyn Torpey and Ella Mastrantonio gave Preston Lions’ season some hope, and Box Hill United climb into the top four. With five games to go, this season remains wide open.
Box Hill United 1-1 South Melbourne
There was late heartbreak for Box Hill, but jubilation for South Melbourne as the visitors kept their title hopes alive with a 94th minute equaliser from skipper Danielle Wise.
Box Hill United had only lost one game since Round 10 coming into this week, and although South Melbourne had been in strong form, it was unlikely that the hosts would make the same errors that Bayside United did in Round 16. This would be a test.
Box Hill returned Sienna Techera to the starting line up, and the young playmaker had an immediate impact.
Melinda Barbieri’s quick feet in traffic provided Techera with an opening to shoot, and the ball struck the hand of a South Melbourne defender. It was a harsh call, but technically correct and Barbieri took the spot kick to score her fourth goal in three games.
The goal came in the ninth minute, so South had plenty of time to respond. Although frustrated by some dedicated Box Hill defending, they had depth to turn to on the bench. Francesca Iermano, Caitlin Pickett and Georgia Kandilas were all introduced to claw back an equaliser.
Although Box Hill boasted June’s player of the month in Sofia Sakalis, the absence of Anais Josefski shows. The pace of the striker keeps the opposition on their toes, and makes the threat of a lighting counter attack ever present.
The closer the game felt to the final whistle, the more tense Box Hill appeared. The 94th minute equaliser came after a sustained patch of pressure in which the home side survived several good shots on target.
It was the poise of Leticia McKenna that created the decisive chance. After shaping up to fire another effort on goal, she cut it back cleverly to the goal face. The irrepressible Danielle Wise was on hand to hook the ball across her body and into the net.
The draw could be vital in a close season, but it means that South now lag behind Boroondara and Bulleen, although with one game in hand over the league leaders. It was a huge point for Box Hill. The result put them into fourth on goal difference, but they will still feel like this was an opportunity missed.
FV Emerging 1-3 Alamein FC
Patricia Charalambous set Alamein on their way to an important win against FV Emerging. After an encouraging opening half hour, FV Emerging made one error in defence and the Alamein attacker pounced to score in the 37th minute.
The visitors attacking press caused a turnover on the edge of the box, and Charalambous skipped free of the last defender to sweep the ball across goal for the opener.
On the balance of play it was a tough way for FV Emerging to concede but they continued to test Alamein, with the pace of Cortellino causing the usual problems for the visiting defence.
Charalambous was central to Alamein’s second goal. she stayed forward as Emerging attacked and the gamble paid off. In space and on the counter attack, Charalambous had time to measure the cross and find Sidney Allen unmarked at the back post. The Alamein star hit home the second of the game with a 51st minute volley.
FV Emerging gave themselves a lifeline in the 78th minute, Anika Dovaston collected the ball centrally and found Cortellino in space on the right. The winger sent in a dangerous looking cross that somehow found the back of the net to make it 2-1.
There was a touch of luck about the finish, but not the move itself. Emerging battled physically to win the ball back and moved it purposefully. Cortellino has scored from similar position previously this season, and leaving her in any amount of space on the wing is asking for trouble.
Molly Burke sealed the result for the visitors with a stunning effort in the 86th minute. The long range goal put an end to Emerging’s hopes of a comeback, and means that Alamein are only two points off a finals place, with a game in hand over Box Hill and Bayside United.
Every goal is having a potentially huge impact on the ladder. Alamein are in the chasing pack, but can still go one step further from last season.
Calder United 3-4 Boroondara-Carey Eagles
This game had everything. Class, controversy, two of the leagues best individual strikers and seven goals in an encounter where a defensive game plan was simply not an option after 15 minutes.
Kurea Okino has been unstoppable so far this season. the only two games she has not scored is was one where she did not come off the bench due to injury, and another where she registered a couple of assists.
Going into this game, there was a question of how she would perform against a centre back pairing from the A-League Women, featuring one of 2022’s best players in the NPLW. Alana Cerne and Natasha Dakic were tasked with stopping the runaway golden boot leader, but Okino had a brace in the opening stages of the match.
The first was a close range header from a well-directed corner. Hayley Guerts’s ball in was low and flat across the six yard box, a nightmare for any defence and Okino made the most of it.
The second was a moment of magic. In the 13th minute, Okino turned on a bouncing ball outside of the area and sent a missile into the net on her left foot. It was an unstoppable effort from the in-form striker.
Kurea Okino does well to make space for the shot, and hits it perfectly for her second goal of the day and on her way to 3. pic.twitter.com/FwNQ5hfoRK
Maria Patrickis headed home Boroondara’s third in the 22nd minute. Another Guerts corner caused a scramble at the goal mouth and the Calder home support might have started to worry about a thrashing.
Raquel Derales had other opinions. Calder started to work their way into the game. Kewiwa Hieda became more involved and Calder began to test the Boroondara defence.
Derales won and converted a penalty kick to bring it back to 3-1. She collected an overhit cross, and battled for possession before eventually being brought down on the turn between two defenders. Only half an hour of football had been played, and there was plenty of time for a comeback.
Alexi Mitchell did the same to make things interesting before half time. Her cross hit the hand of a Boroondara defender, and she stepped up to slot the spot kick herself and make it 3-2.
Boroondara restored their two goal cushion with an efficient counter attack. Geurts dispossessed Hieda at half way and sent in an early long ball forward. Okino’s movement and well timed run got her goal side of Cerne, and she held off the defender to score her third of the day.
Derales restored hope almost straight from the kick off. Montana Matthews’ ball into attack was controlled by the Calder number 10, and she cut inside multiple defenders to open up the angle and make it 4-3.
Calder pressed for an equaliser for the remaining 40 minutes, while Boroondara kept the pressure on the home defence. another goal would not come for either team, and The Eagles now sit first on the ladder, two points clear of Bulleen, but having played one game more. Their goal difference is by far the healthiest in the league however, and the fairytale return season remains a strong possibility.
Bulleen Lions 4-2 Bayside United
A Maja Markovski hatrick headlined Bulleen’s latest win. The versatile centre forward has been impressive for Bulleen without hitting the back of the net in the league. Her value so far has come from creating opening for others, linking play deep and winning back possession.
That is not to say she has not found herself in goalscoring opportunities, but against Bayside, she took them.
Alana Burn set the tone for the home side. Markovski and Beattie Goad combined to hang the ball up at the back post and Burn was well positioned to nod home and open the scoring in just the second minute.
Markovski doubled the lead from the penalty spot 10 minute later. After collecting the ball from a throw-in, her shot hit a Bayside defenders arm and the appeals to the referee were heeded.
Markovski scored Bulleen’s third and her second with the easiest of finishes. Tiffany Eliadis intercepted a short back pass and played it square for a tap in almost immediately after half time.
Bayside gave themselves a lifeline through Kayla Deaver. Olivia Bomford dissected the Bulleen defence with a perfect through ball and Deaver made no mistake with a well struck finish.
Bulleen responded with a brilliant move to add a fourth. Markovski controlled the ball in midfield, and played a long pass wide to Alana Jancevski. The scorer of so many Lions goals turned provider when she raced into the penalty area and slide a pass for the still running Markovski to side foot home.
It was a terrific display of movement, effort and composure and a well deserved hatrick from the former Melbourne Victory fan favourite.
Bulleen and Boroondara both won their games today to keep things very interesting at the top of the Vic NPLW.
Both sides had their CF’s score hatricks, with Maja Markovski getting her third in nice style for Bulleen. pic.twitter.com/mLsNthlOes
Bayside gave themselves a chance of a comeback when Miwa Sasaki and Maryam Anvari combined to set up Deaver for another excellent finish. With one perfectly weighted touch, Deaver lofted the ball over Gaby Garton to make it 4-2 in the 71st minute.
Bulleen were able to maintain that lead for the remainder of the match, and sit in second behind Boroondara-Carey but with one game in hand. They face Box Hill next Monday night in what will be one of the most intriguing contests of the round. The result of that match could be definitive for both sides.
Preston Lions 3-0 Heidelberg United
Heidelberg are in a form slump. There is no way around that right now, but there are caveats. The once in a lifetime occurrence of a home World Cup has meant thay have been unable to play games at Olympic Village recently. The long term benefits of hosting Canada as a training base will outweigh any temporary setbacks, but it has made the task harder on the pitch for now.
The loss of Bella Wallhead from defence is still keenly felt, and a congested fixture along with a cancelled game when they needed to bounce back has done them no favours. However, internally, they will not be looking for any excuses, and the record will show five successive losses.
But the story from this game was Preston Lions, and in particularly the unleashing of Kaitlyn Torpey as an attacker. The Melbourne City star has always been a threat from fullback. She has been able to use her pace , momentum and technique to score some excellent goals in the A-League Women, but Preston may have reinvented her as a deadly forward.
The first goal was a long hopeful clearance from goal. the bounce of the ball fell kindly for Torpey who raced into the box and finished on her right foot from the angle.
Ella Mastrantonio’s guile created the second goal. her wonderfully struck free-kick crashed off the crossbar and was bundled in by Delaney Lindahl. The ability to get the ball over the wall and to dip in time is something very few players possess, and although it did not directly result in a goal for Mastrantonio, it was one of those moments of pure quality that she has built her reputation on.
The third goal came late. Mastrantonio slotted a well placed through ball into the path of Rachel Stirton who held off the defence and laid the ball off for Torpey to seal the win. The win was a big one for Preston, with 20 points and five games to go, finals are not out of the question. However, that is the case for many teams this season. with only four points separating fourth from ninth. There is still everything to play for in the remaining rounds.
Kaitlyn Torpey is 𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐞 in @nplwvictoria, but not in the position you might expect! 🔥@prestonlionsfc have turned the @MelbourneCity star into a makeshift striker & are reaping the rewards.
— Lachie Flannigan (@lachieflannigan) July 9, 2023
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For this week’s WA On Wednesday interview, Perth RedStar‘s top scorer Reina Kagami speaks to Ben Gilby about her footballing journey that started as a young girl in Japan and has taken her to Western Australia (11/7/23).
Above: Reina Kagami gets a shot in on goal for Perth RedStar against Murdoch University Melville. Photo: Robbie Anderson.
Reina Kagami has caught the eye in her first season playing in the NPLW WA for Perth RedStar this year. The Japanese striker has been among the competition’s top scorers all season, despite believing she is capable of more.
Speaking through an interpreter, Kagami said: “To be honest, I’m still not satisfied with my performance. I have missed many opportunities to score. I still have a lot to do – language, physicality, physical strength – and I’m looking forward to it. I am aiming to win the NPLW and working hard to be the league’s top goal scorer. It is difficult for me to continue to play to my satisfaction every game.”
Above: Eyes on the prize. Reina Kagami (right) in action for Perth RedStar against Murdoch University Melville. Photo: Robbie Anderson.
The striker began playing back home in Japan at the age of six before representing Miyawada FC, Tsukuba FC, Shutoku High School, Daito Bunka University, and Ryukyu Deigosu. Kagami remarked how proud she was to have finished in the top three in Japan four times during High School and University.
The attacker, who describes herself as “a technical player. I like to focus on my passing accuracy and finishing skills,” came to Perth with her university friends, including her RedStar teammate Chiori Ikeda.
“I decided to live here because Perth is not a well-known area in Japan and I wanted to live in a place with a beautiful ocean. My agent has a relationship with Perth RedStar and introduced me. I wasn’t personally familiar with the club before arriving in Perth, however, my team-mate Chiori Ikeda had recently joined the NPLW at the club. Carlos (Vega Mena, head coach) offered me a position with the team, so I joined Perth RedStar.”
As beautiful as Perth is, there are major differences between life in Western Australia and Japan, as Kagami revealed. “It took me about three months to get used to it, the lifestyle here is very different to Japan. I have settled in well however it may still take some time to get used to English!”
Above: Reina Kagami (left) with Perth RedStar teammate and university friend Chiori Ikeda and the Regional Cup. Photo: Robbie Anderson.
Among the differences is the style and standard of football, as the striker identified. “I feel as though football in Japan is more tactical than in Australia. It is strong in one-on-one and basically, teams play in zonal defence setups. Since coming to Australia I have found that the football here has a much higher physical ability than football in Japan. I found this challenging initially, but am working hard to adjust to the physicality on the pitch.
At the time of our conversation, RedStar were seven points clear at the top of the ladder, and Kagami is clear on her expectations for the remainder of the season.
“Perth RedStar are a quality team and I believe they will win the NPLW WA.”
The rest of the competition have been warned.
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Above: South Africa lift the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations last year. Photo: CGTN Africa.
South Africa, affectionately known as Banyana Banyana (The Girls), has been on the brink of something special for some time now. After winning the Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), they will be looking to prove that they can be a real threat on the world stage.
Squad
A 36-strong provisional squad has been selected which will be narrowed down to 23 shortly.
Above: Desiree Ellis, South Africa’s head coach. Photo: Sunday World, South Africa.
Desiree Ellis has been a huge factor in South Africa’s recent success. Ellis played for Banyana Banyana herself, actually being one of the founding members and only their second captain ever. In her years as a player, she had a respectable career in England, playing for many teams including Tottenham Hotspur. As a coach, she has kept up this impressive run. After being appointed interim manager of the South African Women’s National Team in 2016, she was given the gig full-time. She coached them to a second-place finish in the 2018 WAFCON, qualifying them for the 2019 World Cup, where they exited in the group stage. In 2022, she coached them to the WAFCON title. Can she take them further at the 2023 World Cup as well?
How they qualified
By winning the WAFCON in 2022. All nations making the semi-finals of that tournament also qualified for the World Cup. South Africa lifted the WAFCON trophy defeating Morocco 2-1 in the final.
World Cup history
This is Banyana Banyana‘s second World Cup appearance after making their debut last time round in France. They took the lead against Spain in their opening group game thanks to Thembi Kgatlana’s goal before going down 3-1. This was followed by defeats to China (1-0) and Germany (4-0).
Key players
Above: Linda Motlhalo celebrates at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations last year. Photo: iDiski Times.
This team primarily play in the South African Football Association (SAFA) Women’s League, but there are a few stars plying their trade overseas in top leagues. In Spain, defender Noko Matlou has faced top competition with her club Eibar. She has played as a striker and a defender for South Africa, having amassed more than 60 goals in over 160 appearances. In Italy, Refiloe Jane is gaining similar experience in midfield with Sassuolo. She has over 100 appearances for her country since debuting in 2012. Finally, in Scotland, Linda Motlhalo has been making a huge impact for powerhouse Glasgow City. During the course of her career, the winger has earned the nickname “The Randfontein Ronaldinho”. Having earned over 50 caps for her country at the young age of 24, she is one of the most important players for South Africa.
One to watch
Sibulele Holweni, 22-years-old, is a prolific scorer from the midfield, once having scored five goals in one game for her country. Another talent to look out for is Karabo Dhlamini. The 21-year-old plays for a Division One US college team, Oakland University. She is a promising defender who will hope to sure up the South African backline.
Above: South Africa’s hugely talented Sibulele Holweni. Photo: Daily Maverick.
Strengths
They always seem to manage to find the back of the net even against the toughest of opposition. Banyana Banyana has grown immensely as of late in this area.
Development areas
The level of football many of these players have experienced is not up to the standard of a World Cup. Their defence and midfield especially will face many challenges when facing the world’s strongest strikers.
Success would be
If South Africa could make it out of the group, it would be a win. They face tough opposition in Sweden, but it is possible to see them take points off of both Italy and Argentina. They will hope to score many goals and make some history.
Prediction
I’m going to go out on a limb here and say Round of Sixteen. Banyana Banyana are African Champions and they should be able to put up a good fight within their group which offers opportunities to pick up points against Italy and Argentina.
Group G Fixtures
23rd July – Sweden, Sky Stadium, Wellington.
28th July – Argentina, Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin.
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Impetus’Ben Gilby reports on today’s Matildas pubic shirt presentation ceremony and presents the views of Australia stars Sam Kerr, Steph Catley, Caitlin Foord, and head coach Tony Gustavsson (11/7/23)
Above: The Matildas are presented with their World Cup jerseys at a public ceremony in Melbourne today. Photo: Tiff Williams/Football Australia.
The Matildas received their World Cup shirts today at a public ceremony at Melbourne’s Federation Square.
The event, attended by a large group of fans also saw speeches made by the likes of Sam Kerr, Steph Catley, and head coach Tony Gustavsson.
Australia captain Kerr highlighted that this tournament offers the Matildas’ golden generation a unique opportunity to reap rewards as hosts.
Above: Sam Kerr speaking to fans today at the event in Melbourne. Image: Football Australia.
“Its a once in a lifetime opportunity to represent your country on home soil. I’ve been to four (World Cups) but this will be the most special. This is an amazing group, you’ve seen through the last few years, we’ve been through a lot and stuck together.
“Playing for the Matildas is the proudest thing of our career. Pulling on that shirt, it’s representing our country, city, and state. It’s amazing to play in this team, and this group of girls.”
Australia’s all-time record scorer emphasised the sense of connection between players and fans that will be key to The Matildas’ chances of success this August saying: “I’m excited to…show what Aussie spirit is all about.
“Having the home crowd – it’s a real thing. Coming here, doing things like this with the fans is amazing. We see every one of you, we see the signs, the shirts, and the messages. We’ll do everything we can to make you proud.”
Above: Steph Catley at today’s event in Melbourne’s Federation Square. Image: Football Australia.
Matildas defender Steph Catley spoke of how this World Cup will be the greatest so far on so many different levels.
“I’ve been to two World Cups, but this one feels a lot different. Having it on home soil – you don’t even expect that to happen, so everyone is so excited.
“There are so many teams. The European leagues, teams, and players are at a level they have ever been at. It will be the most competitive World Cup that there has ever been.”
Above: Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson hails the inspirational qualities of his players. Image: Football Australia.
Matildas’ head coachTony Gustavssonunderlined the inspirational qualities that his group of players have that he believes can inspire both his team and Australian fans to a memorable five or six weeks.
“This is an amazing group of players and an amazing group of people. They’ve paved the way for the younger players that stand up here now.
“With the support from the fans, we will be an ‘in your face’ sort of team for of Aussie spirit. It might cost us a goal or two, but then we’ll score more.”
Above: Australia’s Caitlin Foord speaking to the media today. Photo: Rachel Bach (@bythewhiteline) via Football Australia.
Speaking earlier in the day from the Matildas’ training base Arsenal star Caitlin Foordhighlighted the importance ofending their World Cup preparations with a game against a nation of the calibre of France.
“France are a world-class team so that’s great prep for us. We know we could face them (later in the World Cup) as well. It’s ticking off a box.
“A good result, a good performance will help us going into the tournament with confidence. If we’re good individually and as a team, there is no doubt we can beat anyone on any given day.”
Foord revealed that the younger members of the squad are not feeling any potential pressure from being part of the host nation’s team at a major tournament. It seems they’re all taking it in their stride.
“They are very mature for their age. When I look at myself, how I was at that age, I wasn’t like that. They are very prepared. They can lean on us (experienced players). We believe in them, and that gives them confidence as well.”
With the World Cup within touching distance now Foord believes the time has come for embracing the opportunity and enjoying it.
“It’s been a long time coming round. The last few weeks have been tough with training, now it’s going into the exciting part and we all just want to enjoy it.”
“It’s our last game before we head into a tournament – we haven’t played together for a while, it’s one to look forward to, we’ve worked hard, now we are ready…I feel prepared, I just want to be there now!”
Above: The Matildas with their World Cup jerseys today in Melbourne. Photo: Rachel Bach (@bythewhiteline) via Football Australia,
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