Sunday’s Scottish Women’s Highlands and Islands League Cup final on Sunday at Nairn sees Sutherland, who lifted last year’s cup with a dramatic 3-2 win over Clachnacuddin, return to the venue to take on Buckie Ladies Development.
Buckie Ladies Development currently sit top of the Highlands and Islands League with a game in hand.
Above: Buckie Development captain Michelle Johnson. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Scottish Women’s Football.
However, Buckie captain Michelle Johnson is unavailable for the tie as she is away on leave. She spoke of her mixed emotions about the situation: “I’m absolutely devastated I can’t be on that pitch (to) be part of this amazing milestone for Buckie Ladies. The progress we have made as a team this season is unbelievable, who would have thought we’d be in a cup final and undefeated in the league so far this season.
“I know (the team) will all give 100% today and play as the team that we have become. Each and everyone…deserve(s) this moment. What a day to be a Buckie Lady.”
Meanwhile, Sutherland captain Bethany Sutherland said her team were ready: “Getting through to a consecutive cup final is a massive achievement for us as a club and one that we are very proud of. A cup final is a very special occasion and I feel privileged to be the one leading the team out.
“There is a huge buzz within the team, and we are all up for the game. As a team, we are constantly striving to be better and cannot wait to step out onto the pitch on Sunday and put all our hard work into practice.”
In recognition of the rising cost of living and the travel costs faced by supporters of Sutherland WFC and Buckie Ladies Development, Scottish Women’s Football (SWF) have made the game free to enter at Station Park in Nairn on Sunday, with a 2pm kick-off.
Impetus’ Kieran Yap reflects on a challenging week for Australia, and considers what can be taken from two tough encounters against Spain and Portugal (30/6/22).
Above: The Matildas team that started the game against Spain. It was a very tough game to watch. Photo: Football Australia.
I’ll be honest. From a Matildas perspective, it has been a flattening week. I am sad that they lost 7-0 to Spain, I am slightly disappointed that they could not defeat Portugal, and I am sad that the manager’s future is under question. But in the end, this might be a small price to pay to avoid calamity. The players needed a rest.
Finding opportunities to play European opposition is increasingly difficult. They play competitive internationals almost all year round. Between World Cup qualifying, and Euros there is little opportunity for exhibition games on the continent. Australia, like the USWNT can only meet them on their terms, which is rare.
It is unfortunate that this came at the end of the European season. Had the available window been in April. It would have been easy for our English-based guns to jump on a quick flight, battle it out with Spain and Portugal, then fly back to club land. But the Netherlands and Mexico had already organized to play the Spanish in that international window.
The result of this was players reaching the end of a tough couple of years, and needing a break.
Since 2020, the core group of familiar Matildas has moved across the world during a pandemic, adjusted to a new league, played in an Olympic Games, an Asian Cup (Both under strict quarantine rules), then completed very demanding European seasons.
Above: Sam Kerr – who was able to return to Western Australia for the first time in over two years after being given a much-needed rest after a relentless few years. Photo: Kris Goman for Impatus.
In between this, they have attended national team camps, and flown back to Australia to play the USA, Brazil, and New Zealand. A rest in the middle of all of that might have helped, but a rest at the end of all of that would still have been required.
This particularly applies to star striker Sam Kerr. It is true that her Chelsea teammates have continued to play internationals. But unlike them, she has been separated from her family in Perth for almost two years. In the time since she moved to Chelsea in early 2020, she has played 40 times for the club and 20 times for Australia, often for 90 minutes.
The facts are, she is not alone. This is the first real chance for an off-season in some of these players’ entire careers. Before they moved to Europe, players like Steph Catley and Caitlin Foord moved from W-League to NWSL and back.
The senior players that did make the squad for Spain were ones that had spent an entire 2020/21 A-League Women’s season at home. Emily Gielnik, Clare Polkinghorne, and Tameka Yallop all have spent slightly less time abroad than the others, with Katrina Gorry only relatively recently moving to Norway.
They still had something left in the tank for Portugal and Spain, but may need a breather before 2023.
Above: Princess Ibini, one of the top A-League Women players in recent seasons, scored the Matildas’ only goal of this international window. Photo: Football Australia.
It is true that some foresight may have prevented an inexperienced squad being called upon. But that might have taken planning around fatigue over a year in advance. If anybody was to be asked how they will be feeling physically and mentally next June, it would be a guess at best.
In essence, the scheduling of the Spain game was a gamble. If our top players had been available, it was a great opportunity to test themselves against the best. As it happens they were not, so others were called upon.
In stepped some of the best up-and-coming players on the verge of national team selection. It was always a big ask to throw them into a contest with the world’s greatest side, and the question being asked is, what was to gain?
Only time will tell on that, but some important players have their first caps, and Jamilla Rankin will probably now be even better prepared for the Under 20 World Cup in August.
None of this makes 7-0 easy to watch, but this was a line-up of eleven players that had never played together as a unit. The thrashing against Spain was poor, but both the manager and players were clear on the objective coming into the match, and it was not to win at all costs.
This was not Spain’s best side, and this was not Australia’s best side. The frightening thing about this game was not the score, or the performance. It was the gap between the very best domestic players and international football. Although we all knew it was possible, it was still difficult to watch in real-time.
Above: Charli Grant – her performances were a major plus in this international window. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.
These games were not a write-off. Out of it, we have determined that Charli Grant really is ready for international level. She was exceptional across two 90-minute games for the first time in her Matildas career.
Emily Gielnik has struggled for form for club and country in the past year, and her performance against Portugal should give her a boost of confidence. If Gielnik can find her best form she adds a new dimension to Australia’s attack.
However, as frustrating as the two matches may have been, there was no point pushing players mentally and physically. It has been a tough two years for almost everybody on the planet. The senior Matildas have spent more time than most of us in quarantines, and in airports travelling anywhere and everywhere but home.
They have been doing press conferences in masks and spent Olympic games trapped in hotels, while the rest of us yell advice from our couches and go back to bed as soon as the game is over.
They needed a rest. if the price of longevity in this team is a bad loss in a meaningless friendly. That seems affordable.
Above: Australia’s Courtney Nevin in action against Portugal. Photo: Football Australia.
Impetus partner club Euxton Girls in Lancashire have recently come to the end of their first full season of football in two years. Michael Taylor from the club spoke to Ben Gilby abouthow they have overcome the challenges of lockdown to add even more teams to their club with hopes for greater growth after the Euros(30/6/22).
Above: Euxton’s U14 West team celebrating County Cup success. Photo: Euxton Girls.
After losing two years due to the pandemic, it’s been a busy season of growth for Euxton Girls, based near Chorley in Lancashire, as Michael underlined.
“The growth of the club and teams and the retention within the teams has been very high, the club has doubled in size, there will soon be 21 teams. That’s all happened since lockdown over the last two years which is just amazing, and I think we’re pretty much the biggest girls club in the county which is testament to all the hard work that everyone’s put in and keeps putting in to keep all the girls playing football on a weekly basis.”
With the growth comes additional challenges, particularly as finances are a challenge for everyone at the present time. Michael highlighted how the situation is impacting Euxton in particular.
Above: One of Euxton’s U14 North team members in action. Photo: John Shirras.
“The biggest cost for us is facilities, they just aren’t getting any cheaper and with the squeeze on everyone financially at the moment, it’s a difficult balancing act. We have to be accessible to everyone regardless of status, and at the same time everything still needs to be paid, with us not charging any signing-on fees for two years is something we’ve had to look at again this year while not increasing our monthly subs.
“To put it in context, we’re actually cheaper than paying for Netflix a month, and we’re always applying for grants to help with the cost of pitch maintenance, kits, coaching courses, insurance, and ongoing equipment and costs. In terms of what we are looking to develop next, access to facilities is the main one through the winter especially and is something that’s under constant review.”
It’s not just the continuing growth of the club in terms of player and team numbers, but also in terms of finals and league success.
Above: Euxton’s U7s squad at their Cup Final played at League One men’s side Fleetwood Town’s stadium. Photo: Euxton Girls.
“I think all of the teams pretty much have been in contention for something at the end of the season as well as all the way through. Our U7s and 10s were standouts getting to their first and second finals respectively and playing at League One men’s side Fleetwood Town’s Highbury Stadium as well as the U14 West team winning a second consecutive county cup final at the LFA County Ground.
“In addition, my team, U14 North won their first-ever league title and there were several other close ones with the Development team narrowly losing out in a semi-final, and the U17s in a final on penalties. All in all, it has been a really good and long season.
“From a personal point of view, aside from my own team, I’m especially pleased for our women’s and Development teams, both have had really good seasons, with the Devs making the step up to open age football, with a squad of mostly 16 and 17 year-olds to start with and a tough learning curve but with a very respectable mid-table finish and the women’s team only four points from the top of their division in the county league in their first full season, definitely two teams to watch next season.”
Above: Euxton’s Development Squad. Photo: Euxton Girls.
Euxton’s ongoing links with FA Women’s National League Division One North side Chorley have continued to strengthen over the season in a number of positive ways.
“It has definitely created some excitement and momentum amongst all the teams, from the juniors upwards,” admitted Michael. “It was a proud moment to see Mollie from our U17s named in the Chorley first-team squad towards the end of the season and hopefully this will be the first of many going forward.
For the younger teams, from being mascots and seeing and meeting the likes of Lisa Topping and Laura Walker on the pitch as well as at training. It’s a fantastic opportunity to build on for both clubs, and for us to be involved with a National League club on our doorstep, who in my view should be getting a lot more recognition than they do, is something we can build on and drive forward with the management at Chorley who are a great team to work with and we’ll do all we can to make it thrive.”
Above: Euxton youngsters walk out as mascots with local FA Women’s National League Division One North side Chorley. Photo: Euxton Girls.
With a successful season behind them, Euxton are not resting on their laurels, as Michael wants to make sure that the club is well-positioned to cater for further interest in girls’ football as a result of this summer’s home European Championships.
“We’re fully expecting the Euros in the summer to have a huge impact and more girls wanting to play across all the age groups from Wildcats through to the womens. We’ve got a number initiatives and partnerships to look at over the next few weeks and the summer in time for next season and I think the main focus is going to be stability after two years of stop start.
“Then we can see where the land lies across the club after a period of consistency. There’s a lot to be positive about and build on and cement what we’ve built and retained over the last two years and we’re all raring to go again in September.”
Above: Euxton U14 players underline their relationship with local FA Women’s National League Division One North side Chorley. Photo: Chorley Women.
Above: Finland celebrate qualifying for the European Championships. Photo: Emmi Korhonen.
The Finland women’s national football team is known or nicknamed as the “Boreal Owls” (Helmarit in Finnish). They are currently 28th in FIFA’s Women’s World Ranking list.
The Squad:
Goalkeepers: Katriina Talaslahti, Anna Tamminen, Tinja-Riikka Korpela.
Defenders: Elli Pikkujämsä, Tuija Hyyrynen, Emma Koivisto, Anna Auvinen, Nora Heroum, Natalia Kuikka, Anna Westerlund.
Above: Anna Signuel, Finland’s head coach pictured during her time in charge of Scotland’s national team. Photo: Wikipedia.
Anna Signeul, 61, from Sweden has been Finland’s head coach since 2017. Her 20-year club career saw her make 240 appearances in the Damallsvenskan, but although called up for several Swedish national squads, never earned an international cap. Signuel began coaching in 1981 whilst playing at IK Brage. She additionally went on to coach Strömsbro IF (twice), IK Sätra, and Tyresö FF at club level. Between 1994 and 2006, Signuel took charge of Sweden’s U16 and U18 squads before being appointed as Scotland’s head coach in 2005 where she remained for 12 years.
She had great success with the Scots, taking them to the play-offs for Euro 2009 and qualification for Euro 2017. During her spell in charge, which also saw Signuel take responsibility for the development of the women’s game at all levels, Scotland were ranked 20th in the world, their highest ever standing. She left to take over as Finland’s head coach in 2017.
Euros History:
Above: The Finland team that made the semi-finals at the 2005 European Championships. Photo: Alamy/Action Images.
Three previous appearances in Euro: 2005, 2009, and 2013. Their best result was a semi-final place in 2005.
Qualifying:
Finland topped Group E with seven wins and a draw. The only game they failed to win was a 1-1 draw against qualifying rivals Portugal. They also earned two 1-0 victories over Scotland en route.
Strengths:
Finland’s players have nothing to lose and will fight as a team. They have always had an excellent team spirit. There are few star players, but Finland plays very uniformly and in an organized way, which is typical of all Finnish national teams in different sports. There are also a lot of experienced players who have almost all known each other for a long time.
Development Areas:
Most players have little international experience at the highest level. Only a few players played in one of the strongest championships in Europe. Most of the players play in Sweden, a few in England and only two players play in Finnish league.
Key Players:
Above: Finland’s former Chelsea player Adelina Engman. Photo: Suomen Palloiitto.
Adelina Engman, Forward, 27 years old, Hammarby IF, Sweden. Ten goals in 77 national team games, Engman spent two years in the FAWSL with Chelsea where she scored three goals in 13 games before departing for Montpellier.
Linda Sällström: Forward, 33 years old, Vittsjö GIK, Sweden, 12 goals. 115 games played in Finnish National team. She played 12 games in D1 Arkema in France’s top league with Paris FC in 2019/20 and scored 4 goals.
Ria Öling: Midfielder, 27 years old, FC Rosengård, Sweden, 57 games played in Finnish National team.
Anna Westerlund: Defender, 33 years old, Åland United, Finland, 141 games played in Finnish National team, this is more than any Finnish football player in history.
Natalia Kuikka: Defender, 26 years old, Portland Thorns FC, USA, 67 games played for the Finnish National team.
One To Watch:
Above: Katriina Talaslahti preventing Ada Hegerberg scoring for Olympique Lyonnais at Fleury. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
Katriina Talaslahti, 21 years old, with one cap so far, is a hugely promising young goalkeeper. Talaslahti played with Bayern München from 2017-2019 before joining Olympique Lyonnais in 2019. She moved on to Fleury in 2021 where she established herself as their as number one goalkeeper. With Fleury this season, Talaslahti kept 11 clean sheets in France’s top flight D1 Arkema as the team finished fourth as well as making the semi-finals in France Cup against Paris Saint-Germain.
Speaking exclusively to me, just over a week ago, a very calm Talaslahti said: “I feel good and excited, and I think it will be a very interesting trip and tournament. You never know what is going to happen in a tournament and it is very nice to be in the group. I hope I will play in the Euros, and I will train hard to be a starter. We are in a hard group, and it will be difficult, but we will play our best and see what is comes.”
The young Finnish goalkeeper is ready to take the starting position during the Euros if head coach Anna Signuel gives it to her.
Prediction:
Finland are in a very difficult group with Germany (4th FIFA ranking), Spain (7th FIFA ranking), and Denmark (15th FIFA ranking). I do not think that they could do better than third and for that they will have to provide an outstanding performance against Denmark. It is difficult but it is possible as Katriina Talaslahti, Finland’s goalkeeper, used to say.
Impetus is previewing a different nation every day between now and the start of the European Championships. Click below to read the previously published articles:
Olivia Wood is having an impressive campaign with Perth RedStar. The youngster spoke to Impetus’ Ben Gilby about her footballing journey and life at the unbeaten NPL WA club who are in outstanding form(29/6/22).
Above: Olivia Wood in action against Hyundai NTC this season. Photo supplied by: Perth RedStar.
Olivia Wood experienced some of her earliest footballing moments in the relatively isolated city of Karratha, 950 miles north of Perth. These formative memories were influenced by her father.
Above: Karratha, WA, where Olivia Wood grew up. Photo: ABC.
“I have been in and around the game since I was little as my dad loved the game and wanted me to play. In Karratha. I was playing in country weeks and the local leagues for Nickol. After moving back to Perth I started off playing U10 at Joondalup United with the boys all the way through to U15 NPL at Joondalup City.
“After having a tough season, I thought having a go with girls would be fun and a change. This led me to the Northern Redbacks and joining their U16 team. I had a great season making new friends and had a great coach, Carlos Vega Mena, who got my passion back for the game.”
In terms of how she sees herself as a player, Wood states: “I’m always a player who is looking to improve and thrive on advice from others. I don’t take challenges lightly and always find a way to make things fun which I find is important for me to excel in the game. I consider myself a more attacking player, playing in position such as striker, central attacking midfielder or winger.”
Above: Olivia Wood in control against Hyundai NTC. Photosupplied by: Perth RedStar.
The attacker is surrounded by a number of teammates who have played hundreds of games for the club over a long period of time. Having been part of the group for three years now, Wood has had a number of memorable experiences.
“I have had some great times here. From my first being the top goal scorer for the U16’s league, I think my most memorable achievement was the 2022 Night Series Cup. It was my first trophy and was really great to win and to see what it meant to the girls. It was a great ending to the Redbacks era, which I am lucky to have been a part of.
“It was a great game to be a part of and definitely a nail-biter. When Balcatta scored their two goals early on, I wasn’t really worried and I had a feeling we were going to come back. There was no real secret to the comeback other than belief and trust in each other.
Above: Olivia Wood in action for Northern Redbacks looking to score against Balcatta goalkeeper Gabby Dal Busco. Photo supplied by: Perth RedStar.
“The team knew what we needed to do and after the break we came out calm and ready to work. After our first goal, we all realised we were still in the game, and after that it was down finishing our chances which the keeper did well to stop. I could definitely feel the third goal coming and knew we deserved it. The fourth goal was the icing on the cake and were ready for the final whistle after the hard fought 120 minutes.”
“The sense of community within the club is unmatched. I have made long lasting friendships with teammates and the support from younger teams is great to see. I always look forward to training as Carlos (Vega Mena, head coach) makes it fun and engaging and challenges us to be the best players we can be.”
That final game for the Northern Redbacks was a result of their merging with men’s side ECU Joondalup under the banner of Perth RedStar with the promise of greatly improved facilities. Wood sees many positives in the changes.
“There was definitely a mix of emotions at the start. It was sad on one hand to leave behind what was the Northern Redbacks, but I’m definitely excited to see what opportunities the new club holds. So far playing under the RedStar lights has been awesome, especially on super Saturdays where you can see many supporters in and around the grounds. Things are moving smoothly and can’t wait to see what the season has to offer for the club.”
“As a whole, I’m certain the club is going to have a great season. Our NPL sides have had a great start and can see this continuing throughout the season. Our aim as a club is bringing silverware home for our new name and getting the Perth RedStar name known around the leagues. For me personally, I think this season is trying to stay as consistent as I possibly can, and to learn from our experienced players in the team. I definitely would like to score some goals as I did in the pre-season.”
Wood sees positive developments on a much wider basis across the WA NPL women’s competition this season. “We have seen more and more media. With a new podcast detailing each round and with the Clutch TV partner, the NPL WA leagues are seeing greater media coverage. Clutch TV are making it more accessible for other states to watch the NPL WA games. I think the future is bright and I am glad to be a part of it.”
Kieran Yap provides his weekly round-up of all the action from the Victoria NPLWomen’s competition. As usual, there is a detailed report on one game and a wrap of all the other matches along with photos (29/6/22).
Above: A tussle in possession between Calder United (white shirt) and South Melbourne. Photo: Jack Dilks/171819.
MAIN REPORT OF THE WEEK:
Calder United 3-0 South Melbourne
League leaders Calder United continued their unbeaten run when they faced South Melbourne in Round 13 of Victoria’s NPLW.
Mark Torcaso’s side has not lost since Heidelberg United got the better of them in April. South Melbourne came into this game in need of a win. After a tough start to the season, they made a resurgence that had them on the edge of the top four. But since a hard-fought and impressive win over Alamein, they had lost the next two before making the journey west.
Not helping matters was the fact that they were without Claudia Mihocic in defence after an injury in Round 12 against Heidelberg. Without the Young Matilda, they are much easier to score against. Her excellent one-on-one defending was one of the reasons for their turnaround, and Calder United wasted no time in testing the new-look South Melbourne defence.
Above: Calder United look to escape and advance on goal. Photo: Jack Dilks/171819.
Calder speedster Stacey Papadopoulos received the ball wide on the left and raced into the area. She used the defender’s momentum against her to cut inside and open up the angle from the by-line. The finish was from close range but was not easy. She hit it with enough power to leave Jenna Farrow with no chance. It was one-nil after seven minutes played.
South Melbourne looked set up to counterattack. They allowed Calder United to bring the ball out from the back with minimal pressure, defending deep and hoping to use the pace of Janna Lawson to launch attacks.
However, this meant that Calder were able to attack in multiple ways and any errors could be potentially damaging. Natasha Dakic’s cross almost resulted in another goal for the hosts. Emma Rober’s header was on target but saved well by Farrow.
The score remained at 1-0 until early in the second half. In the space of a few minutes, Calder United put the result beyond doubt with two brutal attacks.
Above: Harriet Withers and Raquel Derales celebrate. Photo: Jack Dilks/171819.
Raquel Derales won possession wide on the right. She played the ball inboard to Melissa Taranto who sent a long pass into the path of Harriet Withers. The winger collected the ball in her stride and held off close attention to finish calmly and make it 2-0 in the 47th minute.
Soon after, they had a third. South Melbourne won a corner through the efforts of Francesca Iermano. However with numbers committed forward for the set-piece, Calder United were able to burst away through Withers. She easily outpaced Bella Stringfellow and cut it back inside to Derales. Her first touch looked slightly heavy, and the ball bobbled on the pitch, but she lifted it over Farrow and finished into the open goal with her third touch. 3-0 after 49 minutes.
To South Melbourne’s credit, they continued to attack, though they had little choice. Janna Lawson had their last attempt on goal. Her control and cutback was very nicely done, but Alyssa Dall’Oste was untroubled by the finish.
Calder United extended their lead at the summit of the NPLW. They are five points clear of second-placed Heidelberg United and have only lost the one game so far. South Melbourne’s second loss sees them drop to seventh. They host Box Hill United next week and desperately need a win.
Squads: CALDER UNITED: Dall’Oste, Cain, Dakic, O. De La Plaza-Sanchez, R. Deralas, El-Hayek, Groba Mathews. Papadopoulos, Robers Rossi, Sardo, Sinclair, Stojcevski, Taranto, Taranto, Withers.
SOUTH MELBOURNE: Farrow, Carman. Claridge, Goff, Houndalas, Iermano28, Kandilas, Keppens, J. Lawson, Picak, Pickett, Sandhu, Stringfellow, G. Taranto, K. Tolios.
Referee: Aleksandar Nikoloski.
Round 13 Wrap:
Above: Action from the game between Box Hill United (blue) and Heidelberg United. Photo: Passion Creations.
In other results, Bulleen and FV Emerging’s game was postponed, The NTC side sits just outside the top four with a game in hand. Bulleen Lions’ ladder position did not change despite not taking to the field.
HeidelbergUnited continued in their consistent year with a 2-1 win away to Box Hill United. Goals to Stephanie Galea and Kathryn Vlahopoulos saved the day in the second half after Madison Van Dooren opened the scoring for Box Hill in the 47th minute.
Above: Dramatic goalline action as Bayside United (orange) take on Alamein. Photo: Centre Circle Photography.
Alamein continued to present their credentials for fourth place, dispatching Bayside United 4-0. Elaina Vatcky scored a brace, with the first coming in just the second minute of play. Nia Stamatopoulos added one from the penalty spot and Sidney Allen scored Alamein’s fourth before halftime.
With FV Emerging hot on their heels, Alamein will need to get a result against the odds away to Calder United in Round 14.
Above: Spain – one of the favoured nations at this year’s competition. Photo: GOAL.
With the groups set out and the squads revealed, the Women’s 2022 Euro Championship has started to take shape, and for Spain, there is a quiet optimism surrounding the camp heading into the competition.
In recent seasons, Spain have had huge success at club level, with Barcelona building on their 2020-21 treble-winning season by winning their 14th consecutive league title unbeaten this season. Within La Blaugranes there is a strong Spanish core, that La Roja coach Jorge Vilda has the luxury to choose from.
In his provisional squad for the Euros, which is held in England, Vilda has called upon 10 Barcelona players including, Ballon d’Or winner, Alexia Putellas.
Originally the former Spanish youth team coach announced 11 Barcelona players in his squad, but lethal striker, Jennifer Hermoso will miss the tournament due to a knee injury.
Her absence meant that Claudia Zornoza returned to the squad, after the Real Madrid midfielder was notably omitted from the squad, with 18-year-old Salma Paralluelo, who made her Villarreal debut in January against EDF Logrono, rewarded with a first senior call-up.
Defenders: Irene Paredes (Barcelona), Maria Leon (Barcelona), Leila Ouahabi (Barcelona), Andrea Pereira (Barcelona), Ivana Andres (Real Madrid), Ona Batlle (Manchester United), Laia Aleixandri (Atletico Madrid), Olga Carmona (Real Madrid), Sheila Garcia (Atletico Madrid), Ainhoa Vicente Moraza (Athletic Club).
Above: Jorge Vilda, Spain’s head coach. Photo: AFP.
Jorge Vilda has experienced all levels of the Spanish women’s national team, first managing La Roja’s under 17 for five years, where he led his country to two victorious Euro campaigns, before taking charge of Spain’s under 19 in 2014, the same year he was nominated for FIFA’s Women Coach of the Year. In 2015, he succeeded Ignacio Quereda as the senior women’s head coach and has established many of the players he worked with at youth level as regular inclusions within the squad, including Putellas, Lola Gallardo, and Patri Guijarro. His greatest success with La Rojas, so far, was in the 2020 She Believes Cup, beating England to finish second to the United States, with the 40-year-old looking to go one step further in this international competition.
Euros History:
Despite being touted as contenders for the tournament, Spain’s pedigree within the Women’s Euros isn’t rich, reaching their sole semi-final 25 years ago. Since that defeat to Italy, they have only managed to get to two quarter-finals, both of them coming in the last two editions of the tournament.
In recent years Spain have found huge amounts of success domestically, with Barcelona Femeni filling their trophy cabinet with league and cups over the past decade, as well as finding prosperous talents and turning them into some of the world’s best. Despite all this success at club level, La Roja have struggled to replicate that form internationally, and are often seen as perennially underachievers and unable to turn domestic triumphs into national glory.
But as Euro 2022 draws closer, Jorge Vilda’s side head to England quietly confident and with the aim to go further than they ever had before, and create some more moments, like these three, in Europe’s most prestigious competition.
Spain 2–1 England, European Qualifier First Leg Play-off, 8th September 1996 – Although not technically a Euro’s match, but a play-off match, that if victorious would help La Roja take a step closer to an inaugural Euros campaign.
But before they caught a flight to Sweden, they first entered the field at Montilla, in Southern Spain, to face England, who already had some European pedigree, after featuring in the tournament that presided the 1997 edition. Despite the European experience and prize on the line, Spain were not fazed and struck first through Prieto Ibanez, eight minutes in.
The early goal put Spain on their way, as they gained a grip of the first play-off game, Ibanez struck again the other side of the break, with Hope Powell halving the deficit with 26 minutes to go. Spain won on home soil and flew to England to hold onto a draw that saw them reach their first Euro competition.
Spain 1 – 0 Russia, European Championship Group Stage, 5th July 1997, After battling past England, Spain were handed France, Russia and Sweden in Group A. La Roja’s maiden game against Les Blues, ended in a draw, followed by a narrow defeat to European regulars, Sweden, which balanced the group nicely for Spain, knowing a win against Russia, would see them through to the knockout stages at the first time of trying.
Above: Veronica Boquete – Spanish legend who scored against England in 2013. Photo: Minas Panagiotakis.
Manager Ignacio Quereda lined up a similar team to their match against England, and saw a similar result in Karlskoga, as Maria Parejo got the sole goal of the game to send Spain through to face Italy and pick up their first victory in the Euros.
England 2-3 Spain, European Championship Group Stage, 12th July 2013 – Since that defeat to Italy in 1997, Spain’s senior women’s side had botched multiple opportunities to get to the Euros, until 16 years later when they returned to Sweden to pick up their first win in the tournament since the turn of the century in dramatic fashion.
After eight minutes, Eni Aluko dragged the Lionesses level, after Veronica Boquete opened the scoring four minutes earlier, and it wasn’t until 81 minutes after the former PSG player’s early strike, that the game found a new lease of life.
The clinical Jennifer Hermoso reacted quickest to Silvia Meseguer’s deflected shot to fire in, only for England to fight back with one minute left on the clock. Anita Asante cushioned the ball into Laura Bassett’s path to guide it in, but La Roja wasn’t knocked back and three minutes into added time Putellas header sent Spain fans into pandemonium after a 16-year absence from the tournament.
Similarly, to their 1997 campaign they reached the knockout stage but fell short once again and this time became the victims of a stoppage-time winner by Ada Hegerberg and Norway.
And heading into this tournament Vilda will be hoping to create more history by coaching them to a first Euro knockout victory in England this summer.
Qualifying:
Although they have underachieved on the international stage, La Roja flexed their muscles in the qualification phase, winning nine and drawing one as they comfortably finished top of Group D, six points clear of the Czech Republic. They racked up some big results on their way. Esther Gonzalez and Hermoso both scored five goals as they whacked Azerbaijan 13-0 away, whilst also beating Moldova 19-0 over two games. The five-goal haul by Barcelona’s striker saw her finish as the side’s top goal scorer in qualification, as Vilda will need to find a solution to replace Hermoso’s goalscoring talent.
Strengths:
The side line-up in a 4-3-3 formation that allows them to dominate possession, in the classic ‘tiki-taka’ style. With this, they are going to be one of the most enjoyable teams to watch, and with Putelas, Gonzalez, and Claudia Pina the Spain squad is full of entertainers.
Development Area:
The fact that their top goal scorer in qualification will miss the tournament is the biggest area of concern for Vilda. It will be difficult to replace what Hermoso offers, not just with her threat in the final third but, collecting 91 caps for Spain, the striker offers a wealth of experience, and the Spanish fans will be hoping that the Barcelona core can transfer their winning mentality over across to the national team.
Key Player:
Above: Spain’s superstar Alexia Putellas. Photo: Jose Luis Contreras/DAX Images/NurPhoto.
Alexia Putellas. Currently UEFA Women’s Player of the Year, Putellas has been the instrumental focal point in Barcelona’s dominance. The midfielder has all the traits needed to succeed in the middle of the park, dictating play, whilst also having a killer instinct when it comes to playing a defence-splitting pass or when she finds herself with an opportunity to score. The 28-year-old is also deadly from set-pieces, with the ability to combine her powerful strikes with precision, she will add an extra advantage to Spain’s attack.
One To Watch:
Claudia Pina. One of Putellas’ teammates at Barcelona, Pina returned from her loan spell at Sevilla last season, ready for the challenge at Barca, which she has battled successfully. Injuries to Mariona Caldentey and Lieke Martens gave the 20-year-old a pathway into the starting line-up and she has impressed. 15 league goals along with 11 assists is an impressive return for any professional, and there is more to her game than just these stats.
The diminutive midfielder is always busy searching for areas to become a goal threat, and being a forward player her ability to keep control of the ball in tight areas helps Barcelona and Spain function. This will be her first senior tournament with La Roja and after a successful breakout season, Pina will look to build on that in England.
Prediction:
Semi-Finals. Drawn in the group of death, against Germany, Finland, and Denmark, it will be an early test for Vilda’s side but if they manage to fight their way through, then La Roja will be confident they can beat anyone. The teams they are likely to face in the quarter-finals are Norway or England, and with the English crowd, Vilda will be keen to avoid the Lionesses – although to do that they are likely to have to win the group. With the squad flooded with talent, though, Spain will be looking forward to what could be a fruitful tournament for them.
12th July: Germany, 8pm, Brentford Community Stadium, London.
16th July: Denmark, 8pm, Brentford Community Stadium, London.
Impetus is previewing a different nation every day between now and the start of the European Championships. Click below to read the previously published articles:
Martin Townley and Ben Gilby heard from Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson after last night’s 1-1 draw with Spain (29/6/22).
Above: Tony Gustavsson addresses the media from Portugal last night. Photo: Football Australia.
Prior to the Matildas’ double header in this international window against Spain and Portugal, head coach Tony Gustavsson said that he needed answers.
His side was without a large number of established stars meaning his focus was to be on training and performances during the camp.
Last night’s 1-1 draw with Portugal saw Princess Ibini score her first international goal just after halftime. Gustavsson was impressed with her contribution coming on from the bench – not just in terms of the goal, but also what she offered with her runs.
“Princess Ibini, who comes off the bench, has some unique skill sets. What we’re pleased with her is that she committed to run without the ball in this camp, both in training and in the game.
“We knew what she can do with the ball. We’ve seen that in the A-League. She also commits to run more without the ball balls defensively, and in behind the back find like the goal today, for example, was a run empty run on the back post 30, 40 metres to score that goal.”
This camp however was not just about giving experience to new players as the Matildas coach also admitted that he was learned more about his wider squad.
“It’s not just about the new and younger ones. We tested (the others), playing Clare Wheeler in different roles to get answers on those players. We tested some of the backline players that have been with us for a while both in the back five and a back four both on the left and right-hand side. So, in that sense, I think we’ve gotten a lot of answers.”
“I’ve got a lot of answers on the individual players for sure. Not just from games but from training. We’ve seen some players perform good at clubland. And we have gotten an answer that some of their performances club land have been challenging to bring to the Matildas training environment because everything here is much faster.
“This is so much faster even though the tempo in the training camp this time around have not been the same as it normally is due to the lack of a lot of key international players. But still, it’s been a huge step for a few of them. But we think it’s good that they got exposed to it.
Despite feeling he has some positive answers Gustavsson, has faced criticism from some quarters for a lack of a consistent tactical approach and stating some of his players are not up to speed with international football.
Above: Lessons learned and answers gained according to Tony Gustavsson. Photo: Football Australia.
“I’m trying to be as consistent as I can with the players available in camp. In this second game, we went back to normal 4-3-3. We tried to be brave on the ball even though we knew it was going to be difficult and challenging against Portugal.
“I think they dominated us with the defending and not with the possession, but we tried to play out through that pressure and I thought we saw a lot of technical mistakes.
“We wanted to try to be ourselves in that sense more in this game even though we knew it was a tough game against Portugal
“I think what surprised me a little bit today like I said is that we struggled in the centre of the park with some of the more experienced and technical players that took too long on the ball and get dispossessed a lot.
“The Portugal aggressive pressing was better than our passing in that central area. So, I would like to see us improve in that sense.”
Gustavsson went on to say that with experienced players missing he didn’t have a team on the field that matched Australia’s ranking of 12th in the world.
“Again, I think it’s the result that a lot of people think just looking at the rankings and look at the teams would say it’s a 12 ranked team against a 20-something ranked team that should win this game.
“What I ask then, is did we have a 12-ranked team on the field today? “That’s not to criticise the players. It’s where they are at and the lack of experience that we have in this team.”
When questioned about how this could affect the confidence of the players Gustavsson was quick to defend his methods. “I’m not criticising the players. But I’m saying that what I even said was, it’s unfair to expect these players to come out and win against Spain.
“I think it’s unfair because they’re coming from an environment where they’re not ready for it. And it’s not saying hey, you’re bad, you’re not good enough. It’s saying the environment you’re in right now has not made you ready for this type of international top-level football. But we brought you here because we think you can get ready for it, and when you get this experience and bring that back home to training.”
Above: Combative actionbetween Wales and New Zealand yesterday. Photo: PhotoSport NZ.
Wales and New Zealand played out a goalless draw on a sunny evening in Spain. In a competitive encounter, both teams created chances despite not being at their best.
Indeed, the Football Ferns could have taken the win through Grace Jale late on if not for a fine save from Laura O’Sullivan in the Wales goal. It was a New Zealand side who fielded some of the young stars from Wellington Phoenix’s inaugural A-League Women season with the Jale joined by team-mate Kate Taylor on the bench.
A goalless first half saw a combination of shaky play and chances. New Zealand enjoyed more spells of possession, but Wales always had opportunities.
The first chance of the game came from a quick Wales counterattack. Kayleigh Green found Rachel Rowe on the left. Rowe played the ball across the six-yard box but the advancing Ceri Holland, but she could not connect.
Annalie Longo could have put New Zealand ahead after a poor defensive pass from Hayley Ladd. Ladd played the ball across her own box gifting possession to Longo but under pressure, her shot went off a Welsh player and wide.
Rhiannon Roberts found Angharad James with a cross from the right. James struck the ball from the edge of the area, but her effort was deflected and never a danger for Esson’s goal.
Above: Wales captain looks on in Pinatar as her team faced New Zealand. Photo: FAW.
Sophie Ingle began to try and pull the strings for Wales putting a sublime pass into Natasha Harding to set her though but pulled her shot across goal.
The Ferns had two great opportunities to go ahead before the break. First, Perth Glory’s Liz Anton who latched onto the ball on the edge of the box and unleashed a shot that looked to be heading into the top corner. O’Sullivan was across goal to push the ball over the bar and keep the score at 0-0.
Soon after, Katie Bowen found Meilayla Moore free who headed over the bar when if she had headed down would have likely given her side the lead.
New Zealand began the second half quicker than their opposition, making crisp passing moves and forcing Wales to play in their own half.
Above: Possession was keenly contested in Pinatar. Photo: PhotoSport NZ.
Gemma Evans was forced to concede a corner as Sydney FC star Paige Satchell was working towards the box. From the corner, Wales tried to clear but the ball fell to Rebekah Stott who fired a shot over the bar.
Ceri Holland had a chance for Wales after an error let her in. Seeing Victoria Esson slightly off her line she went for a lob, but the keeper made an easy save.
New Zealand were looking the better side and a good cross in from the right forced Laura O’Sullivan to punch away. With the keeper out of position, Olivia Chance fired at goal but Roberts was back to clear.
With time running down, New Zealand almost took the win as Jacqui Hand met a cross from the right from Grace Jale with a bullet header. O’Sullivan reacted quickly with a fine save putting the ball over the bar.
Ahead of tonight’s friendly in Portugal, Impetus’ Ben Gilby heard from Australia’s head coach Tony Gustavsson and Charli Grant who put in an impressive performance in difficult circumstances against Spain on Saturday (28/6/22).
Above: Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson facing the media today. Photo: Football Australia.
“It Surprises Me That People Are Surprised”: Gustavsson On Reaction To Spain Loss.
Listening to today’s pre-game media conference with Tony Gustavsson ahead of the game with Portugal, two key elements came to the fore.
Frustration, and a desire to re-set people’s mindsets.
Frustration that he was not able to field the sort of team he originally wanted to against Spain. Frustration that people haven’t quite understood the reality of the situation he and his players faced. There was also a desire in his words for those around the women’s game in Australia to focus on developing a stronger platform or pathway for players to come through who are more prepared for the increasing challenges of international football.
“It has surprised me that people are surprised (by the result against Spain). If you follow the women’s game, see where Spain are, and what they have done, if you look at their scorelines against Scotland (8-0) and you look at the team that we brought to play them, it surprises me that people are surprised. That’s where we are, and we need to be OK to see the truth here, and keep investing, keep believing, and want to improve.
“I as a coach always want the best team available when we play the best teams. When we realised what would happen for this match, I had to decide whether I say as a coach ‘no, we have to have everyone available regardless’, or I look at the longer-term issues. So then you change perspective for the camp. You think about how we can get benefits from it.
“It’s about looking at the depth of the roster in terms of where we are now, and then look at the players and get them the experience (so they) know what it’s like and what it takes to be ready for this level when you are next called in. Whether that means an individual training program, a more challenging environment to play in, or looking for more games for the players over a 12-month period…remember The Gap Report stated our players are not playing enough games over a year.”
Above: Katrina Gorry – one of the positives in the defeat to Spain – and an example of a player who has moved overseas to get more games at a consistently higher level. Photosupplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
Gustavsson reiterated his argument first raised in his post-match media conference that the second half, where the Matildas conceded six goals, saw him field a team containing “four players playing NPL and another playing college football”. Whilst at the present time this is factually correct, it is disingenuous, and easy meat for Gustavsson’s critics to pounce on.
Those playing NPL in the Matildas squad right now are all players with extensive A-League Women experience. The college footballer, Amy Sayer, has played 21 matches at W-League/A-League Women level. They are not just players he has plucked from state football and put straight from there into international football.
Gustavsson went on to be brutally honest by saying that as a result of playing a second half with these players, “You know you are going to lose, and it is a question of how many goals. It tells us where we are right now with those players and the pathway we have. We need to keep investing in these players to give them the best chance of going from clubland to international football. At the moment, that jump is too big for them.”
Effectively, the argument that A-League Women players should be more actively looking to play in strong competitions outside of the top domestic league calendar is a good one, but it has got slightly lost in the way Gustavsson chose to raise it.
The head coach then looked to raise the spectre of a necessary change in thinking about the way the whole Australian women’s football system needs to change to prepare players for top-level action.
“A senior national team should not be looking at developing players. It should be looking at the tip of the iceberg and everything else that happens in clubland and other areas of development pathways should be about making them ready for international football. That is where we need to invest and develop.
Above: Tony Gustavsson admitted he is being scrutinised and being held accountable, but also highlighted the longer-term issues in the women’s game in Australia that this camp has raised. Photo: Football Australia.
“When it comes to reputation, all I can say is that my name as a coach will be scrutinised. Sometimes, a reality check even if it hurts, can be healthy for the long term. Short term it really hurts – for players, the media, fans, coaches, and staff, but in the long run, maybe it is what we need.
“I will never stop believing in this team, but we need to be fair on what we can expect and at what time we can expect it.”
Gustavsson also recognised that he is in the firing line and emphasised that he is held accountable after every national camp.
“After each camp, we review internally. We need to think about what we learned rather than what went wrong. What went wrong is saying we failed and should have done something better, but we always discuss what we learned.”
Moving on to the next challenge, Portugal tonight local time, Gustavsson was clear that there is a lot of work to be done.
“Portugal play in a very different way to Spain, and so our preparations have involved more individual meetings with players on top of a training session. It’s all about getting the players mentally ready as well as physically ready.
Above: The Matildas training in Portugal this week. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
“We have tried to look at past experience against them. We went back to 2018 in the Algarve Cup when we played them twice – a draw and a loss. We had a much more experienced team then. We have to be humble enough to realise that this will be a tough match too.
“They are peaking for the Euros, and we might see a different formation from us and tactical flexibility.”
The Australia head coach closed by addressing the challenge of filling an Ellie Carpenter-shaped hole in his squad over the coming months.
“Ellie is so professional and mature for her age. We will support her and Lyon with everything we can in her rehab. We need to look for replacements, but it’s not (about) looking for another Ellie.
“We are looking for another outside back or wing-back. We have a few options, play a back three and have wingbacks, or we look at natural replacements like Charlotte Grant. We’ve looked at Cortnee Vine. We can take attacking midfielders back into the position too. We’ll look at one, maybe two options tomorrow.”
Charli Grant: Stepping Up The Levels Of Intensity And Staying Positive
Above: Australia and Rosengård defender Charli Grant speaking earlier today. Photo: Football Australia.
For Charli Grant, opportunities to start for The Matildas have been few and far between. One such opportunity came on Saturday against Spain, and despite the intense pressure, the 20-year-old South Australian put in a great shift.
Reflecting on the experience, Grant said: “It was definitely a tough one. We knew they were one of the favourites for the Euros and it was a great chance for us to play against one of the world’s best teams. We learned a lot from it.
“They are such a high-tempo team and it taught us to make the most of every moment we had on the ball and then be focused when they are on it as you just never know what they are going to do with it. They are so technical and strategic.”
The former Adelaide United star outlined some of the factors behind her strong performance. “As a young defender, I just want to make the most of every opportunity. I had to stay so focused. I had to focus on one thing at a time – each individual thing as it happened. One tackle at a time, one pass at a time. It will definitely help me going into future games.
“It helped me massively being exposed to that sort of game. Going forward as a result, we’re only going to get better from here. We trust the process that Tony has put in for us. I know how much I have improved since I first came into the Matildas last year and my level will only go up going towards the World Cup.”
“I have technically improved and my composure on the ball has improved as well. Being around the girls in the squad has taught me to be a better defender.
“For me, coming from Adelaide United to Rosengård was definitely a step up in terms of (a more) technical (game) and a fast pace. Then going into the national team, that (move to Sweden) definitely helped me to transition. Yet playing against Spain is a whole new level! I was excited to be exposed to it, but it was definitely something that needed to be adjusted to.”
Whilst some may expect young players such as Grant to be adversely impacted confidence-wise after such a heavy loss, the defender feels otherwise. “The result was disappointing, but we can only look at what we can improve from it and put all our focus onto the Portugal game and put things right there.”
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