Wellington Phoenix’s impressive recruitment for the 2022/23 A-League Women continues with the arrival of 31-year-old132 cap Football Fern Betsy Hassett. Impetus’ Ben Gilby hears from Hassett and the Nix’s head coach Gemma Lewis(25/7/22).
Above: Betsy Hassett (12) in action for New Zealand against Australia in April. Photo: Ian Hitchcock.
New Zealand’s fourth most-capped international footballer is joining the Wellington Phoenix to realise a childhood dream.
Football Ferns midfielder Betsy Hassett has signed with the Phoenix for the 2022-23 Liberty A-League season, after 14 years playing abroad.
Hassett, 31, has played for Manchester City, Werder Bremen, and Ajax since graduating from the University of California, Berkeley in 2012 and currently plays for Stjarnan in Iceland.
“Ever since I was a little kid I’ve always wished there was a professional team in New Zealand,” Hassett said. “That was one of the things I’ve wanted to do since I was a little kid and now finally there is a team it’s perfect timing.
Above: Betsy Hassett pictured in her spell with Manchester City in 2014. Photo: Alchetron.
“It’s something that I’ve always wanted to do, and it may be my last opportunity as it might be the end of my career soon. It’s a dream come true.”
The 132-cap international also believes Aotearoa is the perfect place to be playing with the 2023 World Cup on the horizon.
“It’s going to be amazing to focus on football and be in New Zealand before the World Cup is there. It’s going to be awesome to play in New Zealand, be at home and be around for one of the biggest events of my life. It’s just a really great opportunity. We’ve got a lot of games in New Zealand with the national team as well so it’ll be nice to not travel so much to and from Iceland.”
The three-time Olympian works as a kindergarten teacher in Iceland but will be a full-time footballer when she moves home in October to push for a place at her fourth World Cup.
Above: Betsy Hassett has amassed the fourth most caps for the Football Ferns in history. Photo: World Football.
“It’ll be nice to be able to just have training and not have work as well so I can really focus on my football which will be awesome. It’ll be really cool to play in the first professional team that’s based in New Zealand.
“Now we have this professional team it’s so cool for the younger girls in New Zealand to look up to us and have something to aspire to. It’s going to be great getting the fans pumped and ready for the World Cup.”
Phoenix head coach Gemma Lewis says Hassett will bring what they lacked in their inaugural campaign.
“Having that extra experience is going to add a lot of value to the team, as it’s something we missed last season,” Lewis said. “She’s definitely going to help us a lot.
Above: Betsy Hassett (right) in action for Ajax, who she played for between 2016 and 2017. Photo: Gerhard van Hees/Ajax Images.
“We wanted to get a couple of key, experienced players that are going to help us move forward without completely changing what we did last year, because we feel like we just got started.
“We showed the potential those young players we were working with do have and if we get the right players to play alongside them to add that experience then we feel like we’re going to go up a gear and really compete even more within the league.”
Betsy Hassett is the Phoenix’s fifth signing for the 2022-23 Liberty A-League season, joining fellow Football Ferns squad members Paige Satchell, Lily Alfeld, and Mackenzie Barry, and rising star Alyssa Whinham in the Nix squad.
The club plan to announce further signings over the coming days.
Above: Ève Périsset dispatches the winning goal from the penalty spot. Photo: Equipe de France Feminine.
France finally ended their run of defeats at the quarter-final stage of major tournaments by seeing off the Netherlands after extra-time in Rotherham.
France were dominant from the opening whistle. They monopolised the ball at the beginning of the match. Delphine Cascarino, outstanding all night, forced Daphne van Domselaar, the Dutch goalkeeper, into making a superb save after 21 minutes.
Above: Just one of the many superb saves made by Daphne van Domselaar last night. Photo: Euro 2022.
Within seven minutes, Cascarino was at it again with a superb shot from 20 metres which came off of the right hand post at the 28th minute. The opportunities continued to rack up for the French. The next went the way of Melvine Malard but Stefanie van der Gragt saved on her goal line – the first of a series of sensational personal interventions by the Dutch defender.
Despite the strong domination from France, mustering 12 shots, six of which were on target, there remained a lack of efficiency in front of goal – something that has dogged the team for months.
France players restart the second half as they played the first with quick passes to go forward with rapidity. Just after the hour mark, Olympique Lyonnias youngster Selma Bacha replaced Malard and she absolutely bossed the remainder of the encounter on the left.
Above: Stefanie van der Gragt – sensational defending all night long. Photo: Euro 2022.
Within a minute of Bacha’s introduction, it took another goal line intervention from van der Gragt to deny France. Bacha was involved once more with a shot that was heading in until van Domselaar pushed it away brilliantly with her hand. The Dutch custodian was called into action twice more in stoppage time at the end of the match as she repelled a Cascarino shot and a typically towering Wendie Renard header.
No goals at the end of regular time where France was not efficient enough to score despite 22 shots with 11 on target, so the game headed into extra-time.
Above: Imposing in the air at set pieces as ever – Wendie Renard of France. Photo: Equipe de France Feminine
Finally France managed to get the ball into the net as despite being originally waved away by referee Ivana Martinčić, VAR intervened to correctly rule that Dominique Janssen fouled Kadidiatou Diani. New Chelsea signing Ève Périsset stepped up to dispatch the penalty into the net.
This was an outstanding performance at times from France. Cascarino, Diani, Perisset, Karchaoui, Mbock, and Bacha who made a great appearance from the bench bringing speed and spontaneity in the game. If France can join their sensational creativity with improved ability to finish, then Germany are in for a seriously tough battle at Milton Keynes in Wednesday’s semi-final.
Above: Scenes of joy at the final whistle as France made the semi-finals. Photo: Euro 2022.
NETHERLANDS (4-3-3): van Domselaar, Casparij (Nouwen 106′), Janssen, van der Gragt, Wilms (Egurrola 115′), Spitse (Leuchter 106′), van de Donk (Brugts 72′), Groenen, Pelova, Miedema, Beerensteyn (Roord 46′).
Referee: Ivana Martinčić (Croatia).
Attendance: 9,764.
Above: The sensational Selma Bacha who was given the player of the match trophy after coming on as a sub just after the hour mark. Photo: Equipe de France Feminine.
Impetus‘ Jean-Pierre Thiesset and Ben Gilby reflect on last night’s Quarter-Final tie at Leigh. Jean-Pierre rounds up the match action, whilst Ben sounds a warning to England fans stating that the Swedes are a far better team than the one we saw last night(23/7/22).
Above: Linda Sembrant hits Sweden’s last gasp winner. Photo: Svensk Fotboll.
Riddled By Major Disruptions To Preparations, Winning Was All That Mattered For Sweden
by Ben Gilby
So many issues, so many challenges for Sweden around this game. Where to start? Essentially, for me, there are two things that need to be taken away from last night’s match.
First, the news all week coming out of the Swedish camp around a COVID outbreak that claimed Jonna Andersson, Jennifer Falk, Hanna Bennison, Hanna Glas, and Emma Kullberg. The disruptions and uncertainty around the availability of players at short notice and the impact on training preparations – several had to train separately away from the main group – was immense.
Sweden head coach Peter Gerhardsson’s quote to the media on Wednesday was particularly telling:
“I think it’s more important to look at what players are available because we want to have the best players out on the pitch.”
Peter Gerhardsson, Sweden head coach.
The Swedes have one of the greatest strengths in depth of any team in this competition, but the impact of the COVID outbreak was monumental. Only making one substitution during the 90 minutes – the introduction of Bennison with six minutes to go, highlights the aspect of Sweden’s head coach having to play this match with one hand tied behind his back.
Let’s go back to that Gerhardsson quote about “what players are available”. I think it’s possible to argue that this is actually a multi-layered answer if you drill a bit deeper. Whilst we know COVID took out five players, there were others missing who you would expect to be there – Lina Hurtig and Sofia Jakobson for example.
Then, of course the iconic 200 cap Caroline Seger was just a watcher on the sidelines. This was an incalculable loss for Sweden. Seger is an absolute legend of the women’s game who just needs to stand on a football pitch to command respect and inspire her team.
Above: Johanna Rytting Kaneryd – not a recognisable name for some, but a superb player, who got a full 90 minutes last night. Photo: Svensk Fotboll.
What this did do was allow the presence of a player who may still fly under the radar to get 90 minutes of a quarter-final – Johanna Rytting Kaneryd. The BK Häcken midfielder, who only made her international debut in February 2021, is a superbly talented attacking talent and at the age of 25, you can’t help but feel she is going to get even better.
Rytting Kaneryd was my ‘one to watch’ for Sweden at this tournament amidst a squad of big-name players, and she provided some excellent moments of pace and ball control.
The selection challenges also resulted in Amanda Nildén being handed a competitive debut at the age of 23 in defence. Despite her relative young age, Nildén has been recognised as a hugely promising player for many years. The Swedish defence is notoriously tough to break into due to the calibre of players to pick from, but Nildén is a player who you can expect to see in yellow and blue for the next decade.
Above: Amanda Nildén on her competitive debut for Sweden last night. Photo: Svensk Fotboll.
Yes, Sweden had 32 shots and only scored one at the death. But when you have a team shorn of such a number of players whose availability was clouded in doubt until the last moments, tactics, build-up play and creativity avenues will never be as clear as in a normal preparation.
Of those shots, 10 were on target, and with Belgium having Nicky Evrard in sensational form in goal, it made life even tougher for the Swedes.
At the start of this reflection from last night, I mentioned two things to take away from this match. The second is a message for Lionesses fans.
Above: Sweden’s path to the Olympic silver medal included a 3-0 win over World champions USA. Photo: Yoshikazu Tsuno/AFP.
Do not be lulled into a false sense of security about England’s semi-final opponents. They finished third (World Cup 2019) and second (Olympics 2021) at their last two international tournaments and are an outstanding team. That doesn’t change on the back of last night.
Sweden have massive experience, they have a head coach who knows his stuff, and with another three days of preparation to get players back on board, they will pose England an almighty threat that can potentially be far stronger than the one Spain offered.
There is a valid argument that England’s attacking style could play into Sweden’s hands. Gerhardsson’s team are masterful in defence, with adaptability throughout the midfield to not just boost their front players, but crucially to provide extra cover at the back.
Above: Hedvig Lindahl – whose quick thinking set in motion a dangerous attack last night. Photo: Svensk Fotboll.
That backline can also kickstart dangerous attacks in a flash. Last night, we saw one such example of that when Hedvig Lindahl showed quick thinking to place a rapid-fire drop kick into the midfield that ended in Stina Blackstenius putting the ball in the back of the net – a move which was eventually ruled offside.
England will have every right to be confident after seeing off Spain – but fans just beware, Sweden are going to be a very tough nut to crack.
Sweden 1-0 Belgium
by Jean-Pierre Thiesset
Above: Sweden celebrate after their win over Belgium at the death last night. Photo: Svensk Fotboll.
There was one surprise in starters, Johanna Rytting Kaneryd, was preferred to Lina Hurtig or Sofia Jakobson in the Sweden team in the right forward slot.
Sweden started by putting a strong pressure on Belgium making it difficult for the underdogs players to get forward. After 10 minutes, Belgium adapted their game and their rigor allowed them to better manage the pressure.
On a fast counterattack at the 25th minute, Stina Blackstenius put the ball in the net for Sweden, but the goal was ruled offside in a very marginal call. Whilst Belgium created the odd chance here and there, it was the Olympic silver medallists who ramped up the pressure once more.
Sweden restarted with the same strong pressure, and they quickly had opportunities to score by putting more intensity in their game. As the game reached the hour mark, this combination of pressure and intensity made its mark on Belgium who began to tire.
Above: Nicky Evrard’s outstanding display earned her the player of the match trophy, but it was little consolation for a heartbreaking loss. Photo: Euro 2022.
Belgium were though inspired by their goalkeeper, Nicky Evrard, who was on fire making some superb saves throughout the game. Finally though, and in the most heartbreaking way for the underdogs, a goal arrived two minutes into stoppage time at the end of 90 minutes when Linda Sembrant forced the ball home.
It was so cruel for Belgium which produced a great effort, fighting until the end but Sweden was stronger, and I still do not understand how Sweden players were not able to score sooner with 32 shots in 90 minutes. If a team is looking for a great goalkeeper, Evrard is one who can do the job.
Above: Lina Magull celebrates scoring Germany’s opening goal against Austria at Brentford last night. Photo: Euro 2022.
Germany kept their hopes of a ninth European title alive, but they had to do it the hard way in West London. A 2-0 win secured a spot in the semi-finals of UEFA Women’s Euro 2022.
Goals from Lina Magull and Germany’s player of the tournament thus far, captain Alexandra Popp, were enough to seal a place in the last four.
Popp has now scored in four games in a row during the tournament, equalling Heidi Mohr’s 29-year record of scoring in consecutive matches at a UEFA Women’s European Championship.
Ultimately, Austria were undone by Germany’s impressive pressing game. A long loose ball up field from Austria goalkeeper Manuela Zinsberger was regained by Germany who quickly pounced onto the attack with Klara Bühl’s cross perfectly dummied by Popp in the penalty area for Lina Magull to send the ball into the back of the net.
Above: Alexandra Popp who got Germany’s second goal. She just can’t stop scoring this summer. Photo: Euro 2022.
Then a moment to forget in the 90th minute for the Arsenal goalkeeper Zinsberger as her error trying to play the ball out from the back gifted Popp her goal after being closed down.
The Germans were made to work for the quarter-final victory against a valiant Austria side who might count themselves extremely unlucky to lose a game, that they were in right till the very end.
Austria hit the woodwork three times and conjured up some good chances, in what was German shot-stopper Merle Frohms’ busiest games so far but she managed to keep a clean sheet yet again.
Above: Germany goalkeeper Merle Frohms had the woodwork to thank on three occasions last night. Photo: UEFA.com
Austria just lacked concentration when it mattered the most as for 90% of the game Irene Fuhrmann’s side went toe to toe with the Germans.
The German side showed championship potential in overcoming a very tricky Austria team with a ruthless ability to make chances pay.
Could nine be fine for Germany? As we get well into the busy end of the tournament, all roads lead to Wembley Stadium on 31st July.
Fixtures for the new leagues immediately below the top two divisions in Scottish Women’s Football have been released.
The new SWF Women’s Championship and Women’s League One will open with a full card of fixtures on Sunday 14 August.
Glasgow club Rossvale, who narrowly missed out on SWPL promotion last season, face a trip to Inverness on the opening day, while the Championship Cup holders Dryburgh Athletic host Livingston in Dundee.
Greenock Morton will host Ayr United and Edinburgh side Hutchison Vale travel to Renfrew.
Above: Rossvale (yellow and red) will be hoping to have more to celebrate this coming season and make up for missing out on promotion last time round. Photo: Rossvale Women & Girls.
The new League One will kick off on the same day, with an Edinburgh derby between Edinburgh Caledonia and recently renamed FC Edinburgh (formerly Edinburgh City).
The eight-team Scottish Women’s Championship will see clubs play each other twice home and twice away before a split which will see the top four teams joust for the title.
League One now contains 12 teams after the withdrawal of Buchan and Bishopton. This means the league will split after teams have played each other home and away into a top six and bottom six for one remaining round.
There will be no relegation from the Championship for its first season, allowing the league to grow to ten teams who meet eligibility criteria around youth pathways and player wellbeing.
Above: Falkirk Women – who will face a local derby with Stenhousemuir early in the League One season. Photo: Falkirk Women.
League One promises some more interesting local derbies. Falkirk women first face Stenhousemuir in round three on 28 August. The first Paisley derby of the season will see Gleniffer Thistle host St Mirren on 6 November, while Grampian Ladies face a North East derby against Westdyke on 26 February.
Above: Scottish Women Football CEO Aileen Campbell was full of anticipation today at the announcement of the competition’s fixtures for 2022/23. Photo: Colin Poultney/Scottish Womens Football.
Commenting on the new fixtures, SWF CEO Aileen Campbell said: “This season will be an exciting fresh start for our clubs, and both the new Championship and League One promise to be hard-fought competitive leagues between clubs from right across the country, culminating in prestigious trophies in their own right.
“As professionalism grows at the top of the game we are determined to ensure a route is there for every woman in the country to have the opportunity to participate and reach the top, and I’m confident the new structure will showcase the best our clubs have to offer, with some tasty local derbies in the mix.”
The fixture card for the opening weekend of the season 2022/2023 on August 14 is:
Kieran Yap reflects on what Australia and New Zealand have to look forward to when overseas fans come to the World Cup next year, with Kris Goman, Impetus’ Euros roving reporter getting the views of fans at the games across England about the tournament Down Under which starts in under a year(21/7/22).
Above: Coming to a state capital in Australia and New Zealand in less than a year – fans show their true colours at the Euros. Photo: Kris Goman.
Euro 2022 has given Australian and New Zealand football fans a taste of what the 2023 World Cup might bring to our shores. On the field, the tournament’s group stages have more than delivered, but the supporters and travelling fans have made just as big an impact from afar.
Australians have watched as streets packed with Orange-clad Dutch fans jump from left to right to strangely comforting pop music. We have hummed along to videos of Swedes singing ABBA songs at the pre-match pub.
Impetus spoke to the fans, some of whom are locals enjoying a tournament in their own backyard, and some who crossed the continent to get there. Many are planning on making the much longer trek to Australia and New Zealand next year. Surnames have been removed because most have not told their families or work just yet.
Patrick from The Netherlands looks like the prototypical Oranje supporter at first glance. But the Ajax Amsterdam member of over 25 years and Victoria Pelova fan has a strong affinity for Australia.
“I always say I was born in the wrong country,” he told us. “I have been to Australia 11 times. I love it there.”
He is underselling it. Patrick has multiple tattoos, a few signifying his passion for Dutch football, then some surprises. He has a kangaroo on his upper arm, an Australian flag on his wrist, and the emblem for AFL side the Hawthorn Football Club on his other arm.
Above: Dutch fan Patrick’s Aussie tattoo. Image by: Kris Goman
“They were champions three times in a row, but now they’re shit.” He says with a laugh.
Patrick is eager to get back to Australia for the World Cup, but is not booking tickets until The Netherlands have qualified. They may be the runners-up from 2019 and boast a star-studded squad but the superfan thinks it may come down to a group game against Iceland on 6th November.
“We will have to win that game,” Patrick continued, “Otherwise, we will be second and have to be in a playoff game.”
Callum and Emily are both English, they are soaking up the atmosphere of a tournament on home soil and attending as many games as they can. It is something that the pair hope to do in Australia and New Zealand.
The expense of travel might be an issue for them, but if they make it, they will want to enjoy as much of the tournament as possible.
“I’d probably do one England game to be honest,” says Callum. “We’re planning to go to more neutral games in the same sort of area.”
Above: A colourful scene at one of the Euros Fan Parties in Manchester. Photo: Kris Goman.
Emily is optimistic about England’s chances at the Euros and at the World Cup. “I’d like to hope we can go all the way,” she says. “We’ve got a good squad. We’ve got a lot of depth now, it’s the first time England have got such a good squad so there’s no reason why we can’t go and win this.”
Krista from Austria is nearing retirement from her job as a teacher. Her enthusiasm for the women’s game is evident on her face, figuratively and literally. She lights up when she talks about her nation’s side who have become famous for their exuberant celebrations, but Krista also has a temporary tattoo of an Austrian flag on her cheek.
Krista is more than just a fan, she feels a strong sense of personal pride in the Austrian side. “The coach (Irene Fuhrmann) was my student,” she says proudly. “I told her to join a football team.
“She’s very ambitious and also, she has the heart of a lion. She is a very important person for the players. Every match is progress for them. They get better in every match. They’re loved by the Austrian population.”
Krista is basking in the rise of the women’s game. She has long been a supporter of the men’s team and the women’s side, but loves the atmosphere and personality of the Austrian side in England.
“The young girls come to the football; every match is on television. The women come and greet (the fans), its more personal.”
Above: The future is bright, the future is orange. Dutch fans pack out Bramall Lane stadium in Sheffield. Photo: Kris Goman.
Like The Netherlands, Austria will likely need to survive a playoff the make the World Cup, but Krista is confident and already planning ahead for her first visit to the host nations.
“In this form, they will win the playoff. I’ve taken away some money already to finance my adventure. I will be retired next year so it will be possible. I’m looking forward to going to Australia. i have to ask some friends to join me because it’s a very long distance. There is a friend of mine in Australia so I can visit her.”
Krista has been a fan of the women’s game for decades, and actively encourages young girls at her school to take up the sport. “You have to promise them a good atmosphere, so they come. If you train them and give them self-confidence, they will play for 10 years and have fun.”
Callum is from a town near Manchester, he has coached in the women’s game for almost a decade. He is at the Euros as a fan, but as a youth coach he saw some of England’s current stars take their first steps in the game
“I’ve delighted in coaching Georgia Stanway, Kiera Walsh, and Ella Toone. Many were about 13 and 14, they were always brilliant. I remember the first session with Georgia, she was outstanding. I went up my dad and said I’ve just seen a female Thierry Henry.”
He hopes to continue the Euros momentum to the World Cup where he intends to take the scenic route to games. “I’ve got a lot of friends in Australia, so I’m looking to going out there and soaking up some sun and football. I might hire a camper van and get no sleep.”
Above: Dutch fans gather and march together to the match venue. Photo: Kris Goman.
The lifelong football fan has been a regular at stadiums for most of his life, but the matches at these Euros have felt different. “The atmosphere, like the one last night was just electric. I go a lot of men’s matches and this was ten times the atmosphere of that.”
For now, Australians and New Zealanders watch on in anticipation and slight envy at the celebration of football underway in England. But it will not be long before it is happening in the host nations.
Right now, if the Lionesses have their way, football is coming home. Soon it will be coming here. The fans across the world, old and young are already planning for it.
by Emmanuel Faith, Impetus Women’s Football Correspondent (21/7/22)
Above: Joy for Nesryne El Chad of Morocco as the host nation clinched a place in the final in front of a record crowd. Photo: CAF Women.
It is not just the European Championships that are seeing attendance records fall left, right, and centre. Crowds are at all time highs in the WAFCON, with a superb attendance of 45,562 who trooped to watch the semi-final between hosts, the Atlas Lionesses of Morocco, take on the holders, the Super Falcons of Nigeria, at the Rabat stadium, setting the record for the highest number of attendees for a female football match. We can safely say “this is our time” as far as female football is concerned.
Senegal vs Zambia The last eight opened with the She-polopolo of Zambia taking on the Teranga Lionesses of Senegal. The first half was compact and both teams had a cagey approach, doing their best to avoid conceding first, something that they both achieved in the first half.
However, Zambia’s defense was broken when they conceded a free-kick that was taken by Mbayang Sow. The Senegalese defender sent a looping ball into the box which was directed into the net with a towering header from Nguenar Ndiaye.
The Lionesses didn’t lead for long as a sloppy goal-keeping from the Senegalese goal-keeper gave Avel Chitundu a chance to equalise. The match went to penalties and two misses out of four meant Senegal were out, meaning that they were going to have to rely on the continental play-offs to have a sniff of playing at the World Cup next year.
Above: Celebrations for Zambia whose win over Senegal clinched a place at the 2023 World Cup. Photo: CAF Women.
Morocco vs Botswana
The hosts Morocco faced The Mares from Botswana in the second quarter-final. History was on the line as neither side had ever made the semi-finals before.
The game opened up quickly as Mssoudy Sanaa put Morocco ahead after converting a brilliant freekick played in by Fatima Tagnaout in the third minute. The lead was cancelled just four minutes later with Keitumetse Dithebe’s brilliant solo freekick. Yasmin Mrabet restored the hosts’ list after nodding in a looping cross from Fatima Tagnaout, a goal that was sufficient enough to take them to their first semi-finals and clinch their World Cup ticket.
South Africa vs Tunisia An early goal from the South African striker, Jermaine Seoposenwe gave her team an advantage and was later enough to send last year’s finalist to a consecutive semi-final as both teams couldn’t find the back of the net again despite creating an array of chances.
Above: Nigeria celebrate their victory over Cameroon. Photo: CAF Women.
Nigeria vs Cameroon This was undoubtedly the most anticipated quarter-finals. It was a battle of the heavyweights and with 48.4% of the action areas played in the midfield, the quality and intensity didn’t disappoint. It was Nigeria who progressed thanks to a brilliant header from Rasheedat Ajibade after skilful build-up play from Ngozu Okobi and Ifeoma Onumonu. The Super-Falcons keep their recent unbeaten streak against Cameroon.
SEMI-FINALS:
Dramatic. Frenetic. Athletic. These are words that describe the two semifinal matches. The first semi-final was a match-up between Zambia and South Africa. The Zambians played their hearts out despite having less possession. The majority of the action was in the middle third of the pitch – 51.2% – showing how cautious both teams were about conceding. It looked to be almost certain that the match was going to extra time until the Ethiopian referee Lidya Tafesse awarded a penalty kick to the South-Africans for a collision between Martha Thembo and Jermaine Seoposenwe at the edge of the box.
Above: The semi-final Morocco and Nigeria saw a record crowd for a women’s match in Africa. Photo: CAF Women,
More drama was to come in the second semi-final match between the title holders Nigeria and the host Morocco. The first half started on a smooth trajectory, and accelerated in pace and intensity, with both teams creating half-chances, however, neither was able to break the deadlock.
The second half opened with chaos when the Super-Falcon’s midfielder Halimatu Ayinde was shown a red card for stamping on Rosella Ayane of Morocco. Despite the reduction in number, the Falcons played with the same intensity as they had done before and took the lead from an own goal from Yasmin Mrabet after the ball was spilled from a curling cross made by Rasheedat Ajibade and redirected by Ifeoma Onumonu’s brilliant header. The lead was short-lived as Mssoudy Sanaa was at the right place at the right time to slot in a loose ball spilled by Chiamaka Nnadozie.
The match was balanced and despite the inequality in number strength, the Falcons maintained their intense tempo until Rasheedat Ajibade was shown a red card for a stomp on the Moroccan defender, Zineb Redouni. There were diverse opinions about this decision as there was a similar incidence in the first half where Ohale was stomped but nothing was done.
“Morocco won the match but the Super Falcons won our hearts” was the trending message after the match, as the Super Falcons played with nine players for more than 50 minutes, taking the match to extra time and penalties before losing out thanks to Ifeoma Onumonu’s missed spot-kick.
The final is set as the host will be playing last year’s finalist, while Super Falcons would hope to beat Zambia and get the bronze medal, a consolation for their outstanding efforts so far.
Above: England joy after the sensational comeback win over Spain in Brighton last night. Photo: Lionesses.
Following the total breeze of Group A which saw three wins, 14 goals, and none conceded, the Lionesses faced their first major test for some time. What a test it was as Spain were outstanding for 70 minutes of this contest and nullified any England threat.
Lauren Hemp and Fran Kirby two of England’s greatest forces were well shackled on a night of great challenge for the host nation. As it their wont, Spain were there to frustrate and England hearts sank when Gonzalez scored nine minutes after the interval.
It looked a game too far for Beth Mead also as the Arsenal star struggled to get into this contest and was substituted accordingly on 58 minutes.
However England found a way as Ella Toone popped up on 84 minutes and Georgia Stanway became the nation’s latest icon with an extra time rocket to set up a semi-final date in Sheffield on Tuesday.
A Tactical Masterclass
Above: The true value of Sarina Wiegman as Lionesses head coach was seen last night. Photo: Lionesses.
In all seriousness, Spain were heading through, they had done the ultimate job on England. Being difficult to play against, they frustrated the hosts and got the goal they needed. England were on the floor, hopes of progression in this tournament were disappearing before their eyes.
It was the perfect away performance by Spain. Had Sarina Wiegman not been present they may very well have probably progressed. However, we saw the true masterclass of all proportions as Wiegman rang the changes and got them absolutely spot on.
Toone and Russo were the most influential of the lot and the latter found the former and England were level.
Georgia Stanway then had the stage all to herself as she glided towards goal and was walking on water it seemed, as she stroll through an open door and promptly blasted in to win the tie.
Wiegman’s substitutes were key and they absolutely delivered to get England back in the game.
The Kelly and Greenwood Influence
Above: Chloe Kelly – an influential substitute. Photo: Lionesses.
The other substitutes from Wiegman who deserve a mention are Chloe Kelly and Alex Greenwood
Kelly replaced the out-of-sorts Mead just before the hour and was superb from the moment she was introduced. Greenwood replaced Rachel Daly on 84 minutes and promptly assured the back line.
These tweaks restored some assurance and provided calmness as the pair were superb across the remainder of the action.
Russo Pushing to Start
With three goals in the two matches against Norway and Northern Ireland, Russo is beginning to give Wiegman a true selection dilemma. These are the thoughts Wiegman will have to have between now and Tuesday and come to the solution best suited for the semi-final to come.
Brilliant Bright
Above: A masterful performance by Millie Bright last night. Photo: Lionesses/
Player of the match and rightly so was Millie Bright. The Chelsea stalwart was influential in ensuring Spain were limited to just the one goal.
Bright commanded the defence all evening and when your backs are against the wall it is often defenders who make the headlines. The Derbyshire-born star was outstanding and will be required again on Tuesday when an equally tough challenge awaits against Belgium or Sweden.
Superb Stanway
Above: Georgia Stanway celebrates her sensational strike. Photo: Lionesses.
A player for the biggest of moments and greatest of occasions is Georgia Stanway. That penalty back on 11th July against Norway saw England off to a flyer in that 8-0 demolition.
Last night was just the same as Barrow-born Stanway delivered in the biggest moment, a 96th-minute stunner of a strike measured at 57.23 MPH and from a distance of 23.2 yards that ended up hitting the net in 0.83 seconds from the moment Stanway connected with the ball, was an extraordinary moment to send England into the Semi Final.
Sweden or Belgium Await
Following sealing the Semi Final place, thoughts now turn to who England will face the winners of the Sweden against Belgium Quarter Final which takes place at Leigh Sports Village on Friday night.
Sweden will be favourites, but Belgium surprised some by qualifying from their group. They will fancy themselves causing another upset.
As part of our WA on Wednesday series featuring NPL WA Women players, Perth SC’s exciting attacking weapon Jaime Duncanson spoke to Impetus’ Ben Gilby abouther footballing journey, trying to find a positive growth mindset, and why she loves life at Dorrien Gardens(20/7/22).
Above: Jaime Duncanson celebrates after a goal against Subiaco earlier this season. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
Whilst Jaime has loved sport since a young age, it was relatively late in her childhood that she made a conscious decision to focus on football. She explained: “I’ve always loved sport, so growing up I played lots of different sports all year round. It wasn’t until I was about 12-13 when I really fell in love with football and saw myself taking it up all year round.
“I remember going to my first ever Perth Glory Women’s game with my grandad and watching Shelina Zadorsky play. I was so in awe that she had travelled overseas to play, it was her job. I remember in that moment realising that this is something I could actually do. I will never forget that feeling.”
Above: Jaime Duncanson rifles in an effort against Subiaco this season. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
Duncanson’s footballing journey began 70kms to the south of Perth. “I grew up in Mandurah, so my first proper club was Mandurah City FC, I loved it there – they really pushed me to keep trying to be the best I could. When I finished high school, I decided to take football a bit more seriously, so came up to the Women’s State Premier League and became a part of what was Melville at the time. After the folding of Melville, I moved to Queens Park SC (QPSC).
“This club truly changed me as a player and person. I will always be so thankful to the amazing players, coaches, and Woodfin family for my time there. After a few amazing years at QPSC, the NPL change came in, and unfortunately, our team had to fold, so I landed at Perth SC. Somewhere I am really proud to say I was there from the beginning.”
Duncanson highlighted the one club and totally inclusive nature of the Dorrien Gardens based club, and knows how lucky she is to be at The Azzurri.
“The reason we play sport is for a sense of community and belonging. That is exactly what I feel at Perth SC. The clubs’ emphasis on the women’s game really helps the accountability of our group, and I feel we are treated with the same trust and respect as our men’s team. And above all else, I love my team and the heart we train and play with.”
Above: Jaime Duncanson (third from front) sees the ethos and togetherness of Perth SC as one of the key reasons that she loves being at the club so much. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
Jaime sees herself as a player who “offers a quick and varied attacking threat to my team.” She enthused: “I always want to score! I have always wanted to be the kind of player where the opposition has to think twice about where I am or what I’m doing.” That has certainly been the case this season as she’s been part of a consistently dangerous group of Perth SC offensive players who have been linking up well and scoring high-quality goals.
Despite her excellent performances so far this season, Duncanson readily admits that the mental side of the game is one area that she is looking to grow in.
“The biggest battle I have had/still have struggles with sometimes is the mental one. Staying in that positive and growth mindset is easy when you are playing well, but as every player knows, rough patches come and go. It’s about accepting those times but being strong enough to know that they will come and go. I think how you come back from those moments of doubt or self-criticism says more about you as a player than your best performance.”
Perth SC went into this season on the back of a place in last season’s Top Four Cup Final, which saw them defeated by eventual champions Murdoch University Melville. The Azzurri star reflected on the 2021 campaign.
Above: Jaime Duncanson pictured on a typical surge forward – this time against Curtin University. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
“We were so happy to make the final last year, and it’s definitely something that is on our radar for this year too. Last season was only our second as a group, so we were still building our identity as a team. There was no lack of heart or effort from the team and staff, so we are looking to keep that up this year, as well as build on our identity and new brand of football.”
That new brand of football that Jaime highlights sees Perth SC playing a passing-based game that focuses on bringing their talented midfield and striking players together in a fast-paced, skillful build-up approach. She believes that it is having a positive impact on their form so far this season.
“We have come out with a fairly new team, and new style of play, so I think we have done really well so far! It’s always going to take a while for things to settle and everyone to be on the same page, however I think the moments in games gone by are an indication of what our team is capable of. It’s been so great to be a part of and I can’t wait to see what the rest of the season brings.
“Personally, I am always striving to be the best player I can. I take it really personally when things don’t go our way and I just want to make sure I’m doing everything I can to help my team win each week. I think I’m having a good season so far in terms of scoring, so I just want to make sure I keep that up throughout the rest of the year.”
Above: Comfortable on the ball and looking to bring teammates into the game – qualities that has made Jaime Duncanson such an impressive player this season. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
Looking more widely at the NPL WA Women’s competition this season, Jaime sees positive growth and believes things are only going to get better.
“It’s great to see the growth of teams and clubs over the last few years. To be able to have such competitive games each week is great for all players and for the competition as a whole. We’ve seen old and new teams come and go, but what’s great is the vibe around the competition – in my opinion, players, clubs, and staff are taking it more seriously which is helping raise the bar.”
Above: Deadly with the ball at her feet and in front of goal – Jaime Duncanson celebrates a strike at Balcatta Etna earlier this season. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
Impetus’ Kris Goman is our roving reporter at the Euros. She is travelling the length and breadth of England watching matches at just about every venue possible. With the group stage now at an end, she reflects on the opening few weeks of the event(20/7/22).
Above: One of Kris’ favourite moments from the tournament the atmosphere created at Brighton when England crushed Norway 8-0. Photo: Kris Goman.
So I’ve been here nearly three weeks and seen nearly half of the group stage matches. The only teams I didn’t see play were Finland, Northern Ireland, and Belgium. I’ll see Belgium as they are through to the quarters but now won’t see the other two unfortunately.
It’s been a great tournament so far. Fairly well run, although I can think of quite a few improvements. The stadiums have been great but each time it’s a bit of a surprise as to where I’ll be sitting. I’ve got a range of cheap tickets and expensive tickets. The more expensive ones have, on a couple of occasions, meant I’ve ended up in a suite with extra catering and a free drink and pretty good seats.
Other cheaper tickets have meant I’ve ended up with the gods looking down from on high and I expect that’s where my tickets for tonight’s first quarter final will be, unfortunately. I really should have spent more money for the quarters and semis but when I bought the tickets I wasn’t even sure if I could go.
Above: The Dutch fans’ fun bus. Photo: Kris Goman.
All the games have been great but the ones that really stick out are the ones where the fans are really engaged. Netherlands definitely have the best fans. They bring this huge orange bus with them that leads the fan walk. They have DJs on board and a cranking sound system and everyone knows all the words to all the songs. Many are chart hits but I don’t know if they’ve changed the words to be about the team or if it’s just the dutch version of the songs, as I don’t speak Dutch.
The passion is contagious and super fun and many of the fans dress up. They are really well organised. They even hand out flags to everyone following the bus and get them back afterwards. I think the Matildas supporters have a long way to go to reach this level of enthusiasm but I know we could get there with a bit of organisation and maybe some financial support.
The next best fans are the Icelandic fans. They have block booked a lot of tickets and look fantastic in their blue, red and white. What is noticable is that they are here for the women and almost all the fans have women players’ jersey on, not jerseys of male players which is often the case with other teams. They are here for the woman.
Above: Iceland fans doing the Thunderclap during their nation’s game with Italy at Manchester City Academy Stadium. Photo: Kris Goman.
I heard the Icelandic Prime Minister was here and saw some people that looked like Mayors walking around too. They are passionate, have a small band leading the chants and again they are well organised, have great chants and of course, the world-famous, Thunderclap.
The next best are the English fans just from the sheer weight of their numbers. Less organised as there’s so many of them, but there’s power in numbers and with a rich history and tradition, they know what to do. If anyone starts a chant, they all join in. ‘Sweet Caroline’ is de riguer at the end of the match and with each goal and win the calls of “It’s coming home” get louder. One I particularly like is “Beth Mead’s on fire, your defence is terrified, Beth Mead’s on fire, your defence is terrified, naa, na-na, na-na naa-naa, na naa-naa, na na” to the tune of ‘Freed From Desire’ by Gala.
The atmosphere at Brighton the night they demolished Norway 8-0 is something I’ll not forget for a long time. I’m on my way to Brighton again, as I write this and am expecting something similar tonight against Spain as the knockout stages commence.
Today marks a year until the start of the World Cup in Australia and that should be the Euros on steriods. There’s certainly some improvements they can make and I hope that starts with the stadium food. I’ve been going to a match every day so most of my main meals have been at the stadiums and the sausage rolls and pies are wearing a bit thin.
Above: The Academy Stadium, Manchester – the venue with the best food so far…Photo: Kris Goman.
Manchester Academy had slightly better food with a pulled beef roll and where I’ve lucked into the premium seats including hospitality, there’s been a half-decent pizza and some quite good chips but other better food on offer too. What’s noticable is the food and drinks of the sponsors and this limits healthy options when the sponsors are Pepsi, Heineken, and Doritos.
One thing I find weird that won’t be an issue in Australia is not being able to drink beer in your seats. No alcohol is allowed to be consumed in the stadium so it all needs to be drunk where the kiosks are. This is law in England to limit drinking so it’s great we don’t have these problems in Australia. Not to that extent anyway and never in the women’s game.
What has been good is access to the players and given the rise of Covid again, it’s been a little surprising. I’ve been able to get autographs and photographs from quite a few teams. Iceland, Italy, France, Austria, Norway, and Spain have all been good. The Danish players wanted to sign but were stopped by their management but did take photos.
This was a bit surprising as they’d just been knocked out so there wasn’t as much at stake while the Spanish players who were still in the tournament were signing everything. The English team wouldn’t sign anything but Beth Mead and Hannah Hampton were taking photos but most of the rest of them went straight to the bus after the match. I guess they are here to win and aren’t taking any risks at this stage.
Above: Austria and Norway line-up at Brighton. Photo: Kris Goman.
Anyway, it’s onward and upwards as I try to get around to all the remaining matches via train. It’s a challenge right now as many services have been cancelled after the exceptionally hot weather yesterday and the day before. To make matters worse, there’s a train strike on the 27th which will affect the second semifinal at Milton Keynes.
I’ve found a way to get from Sheffield to Milton Keynes but I won’t be the only person and I expect significant delays. Thankfully all the games are at 8pm but I’m going to need most of that time to get there as will most people.
It’s generally been fairly easy to get around by train despite having to go from Sheffield or Manchester to Brighton or vice versa numerous times. I am wondering how it will be done in Australia and New Zealand with the vast distances between host cities. It’s just not possible to drive or get the train but I guess it will depend on the schedules. And flying will be expensive so I hope they release the schedules with plenty of time to plan and book ahead. I guess we’ll know in October when the tickets go on sale.
Regardless, this has been a fantastic experience and I can only recommend people buy as many tickets as they can to the World Cup and throw themselves into the tournament and the experience. I know I will.
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