Impetus is delighted to welcome Ghana-based women’s football journalist Esther Owusua Appiah-Feito our global team of contributors. In this, her first article for us, she rounds up all the action from the first qualifying stage for the African Women’s Cup of Nations.
Above: Nigeria vs Ghana in the first leg of the AWCON qualifiers at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena (Lagos)Photo supplied by: Esther Owusua Appiah-Fei
African women’s football, though with a few developments needed, has seen a stark improvement over the past three decades since its official inception. The African Women’s Cup of Nation (AWCON) has grown steadily in the past few decades to give women’s football the competitive edge it needs on the continent. The 2022 AWCON qualifiers delivered its share of fun, excitement, lethargic moments as well as the highs and lows from the players.
The two greatest powerhouses and longstanding rivals were in the mix and to the surprise of many, they had to clash way too early in the qualifiers. The Black Queens of Ghana were drawn against the Super Flacons of Nigeria and it was nothing short of a thrill-infested game with all the antics and drama. Desiree Ellis and her Bayana Bayana ladies from South Africa, once again, made a statement that constant investment into women’s football pays off in beneficial folds and that can get you a highly coveted spot in an AWCON tournament.
A record of 44 great teams from Africa were pitted against each other for 11 spots in the final campaign. Prior to the game, there were critiques, who were against the format of the qualifiers but CAF still pushed through with it regardless. On May 10, 2022, the draw for the qualifiers en route to Morocco was done in Egypt, at CAF’S Headquarters in Cairo. The initial date set for the qualifiers were ‘June 7-17’ for the first round and ‘October 18-29’ for the second round.
However, on May 17, CAF distributed an official press release where they stated the immediate suspension of all the games due to COVID-19 travel restrictions, and the poor state of some stadiums on the continent. The quality of the game was an element the Federation wasn’t going to compromise on. The new dates for the AWCON qualifiers were also stated in the press release. The first round was going to take place within the month of October from the 18th through to the 26th whereas the second round will start on February 14-23 respectively.
During the international break in the various leagues, all the players together with their compatriots flew down to Africa to serve their international duties. The first leg of the first playoff round ended with quite some interesting score lines. Magnificent amongst them were the cricket scorelines in the mix. Algeria drubbed Sudan in a 14-0 massacre, with Botswana outclassing Angola by 5-1, Kenya also mauled South Sudan by 8-0 with Desiree Ellis’s South Africa thrashing Mozambique by 7-0. The Copper Queens of Zambia shared the spoils with Malawi after a 1-1 thrilling game. Barbara Banda missed this particular round of qualifiers for undisclosed reasons.
Image supplied by: Esther Owusua Appiah-Fei
The game that caught the attention of many was Ghana’s encounter with arch West African rivals, Nigeria. Nigeria held Ghana to a 2-0 scoreline with a super brace from Uchenna for the Falcons.
The second leg of the first playoff round was also held over the weekend from Saturday, October 23, through to Tuesday, October 26. Teams like Ghana, Central Africa Republic, Liberia, Mauritania, Benin, Sierra Leone, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Gabon, Malawi, and Zambia were hoping to overturn their luck and qualify for the second round, slated for February 2022. It was a ‘do or die’ affair and all the teams were in no position to slip up and miss the next round of qualifiers. Ghana played against the Super Falcons of Nigeria on their home turf at the Accra Sports Stadium. Their games were the highlight of the whole Qualifiers considering the fact that they are the pacesetters for women’s football in Africa.
The Black Queens of Ghana played immensely well at Accra and complimented their performance with a great goal by Princella Adubea. They huffed and puffed trying to break the Nigerian defensive line and set the aggregate scoreline all square but it all proved futile. It ended 1-0 in favor of the Queens but on aggregate, Nigeria won by 2-1 and advanced to the second round.
The other round of matches across the continent were also dramatic and left fans on the edges of their seats. The game between Zambia and Malawi was one for the books. They both entered this clash with a 1-1 scoreline on aggregate hence had everything to fight for. Zambia showed their resiliency and tactical prowess and stood tallest after what turned out to be a nerve-wracking match. At halftime, the Copper Queens of Zambia led the scoreline with two goals from Racheal Kundananji 25’, 41’ and Asimeye Simwaka of Malawi scored the first goal of the game on the seventh-minute mark. Malawi leveled proceedings from a screamer by Wezzie Mvula on the 70th-minute mark.
After three minutes, Lushomo Mweeba put Zambia back in the lead from a long-range freekick. It all ended in favor of Zambia and they proceeded to the second and final round of the qualifiers. This time they go head to head with Namibia who emerged victorious over Tanzania.
Above: The Copper Queens of Zambia celebrating after scoring Malawi in the first-leg match. Photo supplied by: Esther Owusua Appiah-Fei
Kenya and Algeria had the highest scoring aggregate in this qualifying round with their cricket score lines. There were no major upsets as almost all the powerhouses in Africa women’s football qualified for the next round,
Unfortunately, all the teams who were in high hopes of staging a comeback and causing an upset in their second legs fell through. DR Congo and Equatorial Guinea were disqualified. Djibouti, Rwanda, Togo, and Sao Tome E Principe withdrew and the game between Algeria and Sudan was also postponed. With the political unrest still looming in Sudan, it is still uncertain when the second leg between the two would come off.
Image supplied by: Esther Owusua Appiah-Fei
For what is worth all the teams showed great charisma for their games and had the perks of playing the game they loved most in their national team colors. The tactics employed by the various coaches and the overall player performance rate were at a staggering high. This clearly showed a great renaissance in African women’s football and it was nothing short of thrills, excitement, and a great spectacle of football for women and the continent at large.
Ben Gilby hears from Adelaide United’s Fiona Worts & Adrian Stenta before providing the views of Michelle Heyman and Allira Toby at Canberra United’s media day. Tash Rigby and Alex Epakis speak at the unveiling of Perth Glory’s captain for the campaign and we conclude with in depth coverage Wellington Phoenix Women’s first media conferencewhere he heard from head coach Gemma Lewis and General Manager David Dome who provided the latest information on the club’s development, home matches and sponsorship.
Above: Wellington Phoenix head coach Gemma Lewis speaks during a very honest press conference in New Zealand this week. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Wellington Phoenix.
Adelaide United Re-Sign Worts:
Above: Fiona Worts – back at Adelaide United for 2021/22. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Adelaide United
Adelaide United announced on Monday that Fiona Worts has re-signed with them for the upcoming A-League Women 2021/22 season.
Worts played nine games in her debut campaign for the Reds, scoring two goals and registering three assists.
The English forward was at Fulham United in the local Women’s NPL SA where she scored eight goals in 13 matches.
The 25-year-old has also previously plied her trade with both Leicester City and Coventry United in the FA Women’s Championship – the second division of women’s football in England.
Speaking on re-joining the squad for the impending season, Worts said: “I’m really happy to be back with Adelaide United and looking forward to the new season.
“It was really enjoyable playing for Adrian (Stenta) last year and I’m determined to help the team be successful moving forward.
“We came really close to reaching our finals objective, and I’m confident we can go one step further this time around.”
Adelaide United’s A-League Women Head Coach, Adrian Stenta, said: “Fiona showed last season that she can play at this level.
“Ahead of this season, and with another strong WNPL campaign under her belt, I’m confident Fiona can continue to show her quality and contribute to our team’s overall goals for 2021/22.
“She is a versatile attacker who brings a lot of flexibility to our line-up and we’re very happy to have Fiona as part of our squad again.”
Canberra United Media Day: Michelle Heyman and Allira Toby Speak:
Above: Canberra United back in training. Photo: Canberra Times.
All-time A-League Women leading scorer Michelle Heyman and new signing Allira Toby spoke to the media this week.
Talking first was Michelle Heyman who was enthusiastic about being back: “It’s surreal to be back here. It’s been the longest wait being in lockdown with everyone doing individual sessions, so it has been so nice to get back out on the field with the girls and have a laugh.
“My body is feeling good again, so I’m happy to push it again and see what I can do. To be back training with people is such a high.
“Everyone has walked in and new faces have slotted right in. Everyone’s working hard. Our physio was helping us with running programs in the off-season. Most of us have been doing it for ten weeks now.”
Above: Michelle Heyman pictured at Canberra United’s media day this week. Photo: Canberra United.
The former Matilda outlined some of the details that the players have heard about the organisational side of the competition this season.
“We’ve heard that things might be even more challenging than last season, which seems impossible, but I’m hoping things can be more exciting in terms of fan engagements at matches. With travel, the only big issue is Perth and what is going to happen there.
“We’re pretty keen to get back in front of our fans. I love Canberra, I love the fans and I can’t wait, I’m pumped! Our mission this year is to make and then win Finals. Last year we wanted to be top four and we did that. This year we believe we can do it.”
Heyman then spoke about the possibilities offered by expansion teams coming into the competition. “It’s exciting. It’s great that there will be more opportunities for women to play football at a high level. There’s more depth now. The more teams that we have will benefit the league and the Matildas.”
Artwork: Canberra United
Allira Toby outlined her experiences since arriving in the national capital. “Canberra’s great, it’s a lot colder than Queensland though! I didn’t need to do quarantine, so I was lucky. I’ve been playing football all year. There were no real restrictions in Brisbane so I could fly in and get going.
“I’m football fit ready to go whereas others have gone two months without football or training. I’m in good shape. I’m used to doing double sessions.”
Asked why she particularly chose Canberra United said: “I needed a change. I like to thrive in a different environment. I spoke to Vicki (Linton) on the phone before signing and what she said sounded like it would be a great fit. I realised it was the right choice within the first few days of arriving. I’m excited about what I can do and it was the right choice.
“I’m really excited to be playing alongside Michelle. I’ve been excited to play with her since signing. Now I’ve got six weeks to see how she plays specifically and get out partnership so that come round one we are ready and can score goals.”
Perth Glory Announce Rigby As Captain:
Artwork: Perth Glory
Defender Tash Rigby was confirmed as the club’s captain for the 2021/22 season on Thursday. Speaking to the media she said, “It’s an absolute honour to captain this team and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to do it again this year.
“We have an incredibly exciting squad lined up this season and [Head Coach] Alex Epakis and the club have been working so hard to ensure we are set to succeed in our upcoming campaign.
“We are building a specific environment where players feel safe to be themselves and I can’t wait to see what lies ahead. We have a lot to prove this year and the players have certainly started pre-season with a bang.”
“Tash is a standout person and leader,” said Alex Epakis, “Her energy is infectious and she has a deep desire to win whilst always leading by example.
“I know she deeply values her leadership role and position within the team and each day she represents the club and our values with the highest of standards. Tash is a great character and the perfect person to drive the team into what is shaping up to be a very exciting season for us. I look forward to working closely with her this year.”
Phoenix Media Conference And Recruitment Latest as They Add Three From NSW, Two Scholars
Above: Wellington Phoenix head coach Gemma Lewis at the press conference. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Wellington Phoenix.Taken by Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images.
Wellington Phoenix head coach Gemma Lewis faced the media on Thursday. She first spoke about the mostly young roster that the club has put together so far.
“I think we were always going to have a young list mainly with the timing of us entering the competition. However, we would have been looking to get the vast majority of these players into other A-League Women clubs anyway if Phoenix hadn’t been taking part this year. We believe that they are ready.
“The list is not based short term. It’s all long-term. If we look after these players and nourish them, we feel there will be impact in the future years.
“A lot of the players have been in lockdown for the past nine weeks, so we’re getting everyone on the pitch and brushing off the cobwebs. Now the expectation is about getting them ready – physically and mentally about what they will face. We think we’ll be ready for the first game now.
“You need to remember that a lot of our younger players have international experience so they may be in a better position experience-wise than some of the Australian youngsters.”
In terms of why some home-based players with Football Fern experience have not joined the club, Lewis said that: “It’s to do with time. A lot of them have work and playing A-League Women is pretty much a five-month expectation. We understand that.”
The Phoenix head coach was also asked if the pandemic has impacted on their ability on getting Kiwi players back from overseas to play for them. “Maybe, but I don’t think our list would have looked that much different. Maybe we could have brought two or three in but overall it wouldn’t have changed the shape of our team.”
Above: Some of Wellington Phoenix’s inaugural squad pose for the cameras on Thursday. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Wellington Phoenix. Taken by: by Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images.
In terms of the biggest challenge at present, Lewis was clear: “At the moment, the biggest challenge we have is the squad. Right now we have half of the team here in New Zealand but still the other half to come in. Getting those players together will be our biggest challenge. It’s not a case of Aussies and Kiwis, just getting together. We need to get them together as the Phoenix and that’s key.”
“We want to be here, but Covid brings circumstances that won’t allow that. We’re itching for a doubleheader with the men as a home game. It’s a long shot for us to play at home this season, but it would be massive for the players.”
In terms of what Lewis is aiming for with the squad this season, she was realistic: “We want to be competitive, with the young group we have, there is nothing to lose and everything to gain. We will come up against players who have been playing together for a long time. A lot of the W-League teams have retained players from previous seasons. However, a new group with unknowns gives us a competitive edge straightaway. We’ll know after the first couple of games where we will be.”
She did also highlight the fact that the long term benefits are potentially huge for New Zealand women’s football: “Young girls in New Zealand never had a tangible outcome to play high-level football in the country, but now they will be able to see players not much older than themselves playing in this competition. It creates a big shift in the pathway in New Zealand. They see the Ferns but don’t see those players’ club careers as there isn’t the exposure.
“We don’t always see ourselves as a young development side. We came in late to the piece this season and in terms of players were left with what others hadn’t picked up. Going forward, we will always have some youngsters, but we want eventually to get more experience and push for Finals.”
General Manager David Dome was also present and outlined the logistics between Phoenix’s entry into the competition. “We’re in constant touch with the APL and we’re looking at getting over to Australia next week. We have permission not to quarantine, so we can go straight into Sydney.
“We are also working with the APL about working the draw so we can have as many doubleheaders as possible with our men’s team. If our men’s team are allowed to play home games here, then we want our women’s team home too. It is high on our priority list. We need the draw to work in our favour and also the border situation to work in our favour. It also depends on commercial backing. We’ve had some interested parties but as yet no one has come forward to sign on the dotted line and that is disappointing for us.”
The following day he was also able to confirm that: “We will be based in Wollongong and will play home matches at WIN Stadium.
Artwork: Wellington Phoenix
Wellington Phoenix announced the addition of three Australian-based players for the upcoming A-League Women’s 2021/22 Season on Monday.
Te Reremoana Walker, Isabel Gomez and Cushla Rue have all agreed to one-year terms with the Club, and will join up with the Phoenix squad once the team arrives in NSW early next week.
Walker, a 17-year-old Kiwi midfielder, has been based in New South Wales since 2017, racking up over 100 matches played and 10 goals scored over five seasons in the NSW NPL Women’s competition. She spent the 2020/21 Season in the Newcastle Jets Academy setup as they competed in the NSW NPL Women’s competition for the first time, and has also represented New Zealand as an under-17 international player.
Isabel Gomez, an 18-year-old Australian midfielder, joins the squad with A-League experience after spending last season with the Western Sydney Wanderers in the 2020/21 A-League Women’s competition – playing five matches. Prior to this Gomez was a part of the Football NSW Institute, where she starred in the 2020 National Premier Leagues NSW Women’s season over 11 matches.
Cushla Rue is an 18-year-old Australian defender who has also played in the NSW NPL Women’s competition over four seasons for the Football NSW Institute, amassing 19 goals over 75 matches played. In November 2020, Rue was named in the first ever Women’s Talent Identification Camp in Canberra; this led to her being selected for the Young Matildas Squad Training Camp in June this year, after impressing Young Matildas head coach Leah Blayney.
Wellington Phoenix Head Coach, Gemma Lewis says that despite their age, all three players bring an intriguing mix of experience and potential to the squad.
“Mona [Te Reremoana] has been on the national team radar for a while so we know what she brings to the table; her time with the Jets has really helped her to grow over the last year,” says Lewis.
“And both Gomez and Rue impressed at the Football NSW Institute last season – with Gomez gaining valuable A-League experience and Rue pegged as a future Matildas star – so I’m excited to see how all three players can positively impact on this squad this year.”
Walker will take up the eleventh and final Kiwi spot in the Phoenix A-League Women’s squad, while Gomez and Rue are the Club’s first signings to be included in the APL-mandated seven Australian spots.
Artwork: Wellington Phoenix
Wellington Phoenix have added Kiwi players Charlotte Lancaster and Alyssa Whinham to scholarships with the A-League Women’s team.
Although the Club has filled its allotment of 11 Kiwi players for the upcoming season, it has been granted special dispensation by Football Australia to have Lancaster and Whinham join the team as New Zealand scholarship players.
Alyssa Whinham, an 18-year-old attacking midfielder, has played with the Canterbury Pride in the Women’s National League since 2019 – teaming up last season with fellow Phoenix signings Kate Taylor and Zoe McMeeken as the Pride captured its third successive championship. Earlier this year Whinham played for Coastal Spirit in Mainland’s WPL competition.
Charlotte Lancaster is an 17-year-old defender who hails from Napier in the Hawkes Bay. She debuted for Central Football in the Women’s National League in 2018 at 15 years old, and was named as their Female Player of the Year last season. Lancaster most recently played for Palmerston North Marist’s FC, which finished 2nd in the W-League.
Whinham and Lancaster have experience playing alongside each other, with both players called up into the New Zealand U-20 camps earlier this year. They were also both members of the NZ U-16s side that came in second at the 2019 CFA China International Youth Football Tournament – with Lancaster named as Player of the Match in the team’s 2-1 win over Thailand to claim silver.
Wellington Phoenix Women’s Head Coach, Gemma Lewis, says that this is a great opportunity for these two young players to gain some professional experience. “I’m really pleased that we’re able to offer Alyssa and Charlotte a chance to be part of this team, it’s great for us and great for their career ambitions too.
“They both know how special it is for them to be a part of our inaugural squad, and that these type of opportunities in the professional space don’t come around often; so I’m confident they’ll put in 110% effort and treat this season as a learning – and fun – experience.”
The Wellington Phoenix A-League Women’s squad now stands at 15 players.
We highlight the contenders for this year’s FIFA Women’s Ballon d’Or and then four members of the Impetus writing team – Ben Gilby, Jean-Pierre Thiesset, Kieran Yap, and Kris Goman discuss who they think deserves the award this year and who they suspect will win.
Above: The Ballon d’Or. Photo: FIFA
FIFA recently announced the contenders for the 2021 Women’s Ballon d’Or award. The twenty player shortlist consists of:
Stina Blackstenius, Swedish – BK Häcken (Sweden), Kadidiatou Diani, French – Paris Saint-Germain (France), Christiane Endler, Chilean – Paris Saint-Germain (France), Olympique Lyonnais (France), Magdalena Eriksson, Swedish – Chelsea (England), Jessie Fleming, Canadian – Chelsea (England), Pernille Harder, Danish – Chelsea (England), Jennifer Hermoso, Spanish – Barcelona (Spain), Marie-Antoinette Katoto, French – Paris Saint-Germain (France), Sam Kerr, Australian – Chelsea (England), Fran Kirby, English – Chelsea (England), Ashley Lawrence, Canadian – Paris Saint-Germain (France), Lieke Martens, Dutch – Barcelona (Spain), Sam Mewis, American – North Carolina Courage (USA), Vivianne Miedema, Dutch – Arsenal (England), Sandra Paños, Spanish – Barcelona (Spain), Irene Paredes, Spanish – Paris Saint-Germain (France), Barcelona (Spain), Alexia Putellas, Spanish – Barcelona (Spain), Wendie Renard, French – Olympique Lyonnais (France), Christine Sinclair, Canadian – Portland Thorns (USA), Ellen White, English – Manchester City (England).
Of the twenty players in the shortlist, four are Spanish, three Canadian, three French, two Dutch, two English, two Swedish, and one American, Australian, Chilean, and Dane each. In terms of where these stars are playing their club football, seven play in the FAWSL in England, five in France’s D1 Arkema, five in Spain, two in America, and one in Sweden.
My View – Ben Gilby:
Above: Christine Sinclair (12) – big achievements with Canada. Photo: Getty Images.
In terms of who I believe are strong contenders, Fran Kirby had the best season of her life in club football last season and was an absolute joy to watch, however, her lack of international success during the calendar year with Great Britain exiting the Olympics at the Quarter-Finals, and England having a less than impressive run of results before the Autumn is likely to count against her. Sam Kerr finally showed the doubters why they were so wrong about her in the early part of the 2020/21 FAWSL season as she couldn’t stop scoring for club and found her scoring touch for the Matildas as they made the Semi-Finals of the Olympic Games. Jessie Fleming’s nomination is great to see for her incredible performances in Tokyo, but she did not make many starts for Chelsea during this calendar year. Also well worth keeping an eye out for is Alexia Putellas given Barcelona’s outstanding season which culminated with a breathtaking Champions League Final performance and Spain’s continuing emergence as a force on the European international scene – something that deserves to be rewarded.
This award usually counts international success as a key factor, therefore I have a suspicion that Christine Sinclair might just take the award after she finally achieved major international success with Canada to add to her phenomenal goal-scoring record as she took Olympic Gold with her country.
My View – Jean-Pierre Thiesset:
Above: Jessie Fleming, who had an incredible 2021. Photo: Getty Images.
I think that to be awarded a Ballon d’Or, the team in which you play, and the trophies won by your team influence the decision a lot. You can be the best player in your category but if your team did not win anything, there is little chance that you have the Ballon d’Or. The teams of the last two recipients had won big contests: Ada Hegerberg, Champions League winner with Lyon; Megan Rapinoe, World Cup winner with the USA.
I think that Christiane Endler is the best goalkeeper, and I would love to see her awarded the Ballon d’Or, but she is a goalkeeper, and everyone knows that it is even more difficult for a goalkeeper to be awarded a Ballon d’Or, and she neither won the Champions League with Paris SG, nor the Olympics with Chile; so, there is little chance that she will win. For the same reasons, I think that Wendie Renard, who is probably the best defender in the world but she won nothing with Lyon last season and will not have it either, except if the voters take into consideration her full career. I could see Sam Kerr who won the England Championship with Chelsea, and had good performances in Olympics Games with Australia, even if they did not win it. But I guess that Jessie Fleming who won the Olympics Games with Canada, the England Championship with Chelsea, and who was in the final of Women UEFA Champions League could be the 2021 Ballon d’Or recipient.
My View: Kieran Yap:
Above: Lieke Martens – part of a sensational Barcelona team. Photo: FC Barcelona.
Caroline Graham-Hansen was an outstanding player in a dominant side. She was unstoppable and influential against Chelsea in the Champions League Final and is a key player in the all-conquering Barcelona team. Strangely the Norwegian has not been nominated in what can only be a bizarre oversight.
Sam Kerr delivered at every opportunity for club and country. She won the Golden Boot in her first full FAWSL season and scored six times at the Olympics. Her form has rightfully been rewarded with a third straight Ballon D’or nomination. Although she is probably the best centre-forward in the world, voters might not consider that enough to be considered the best player.
The award will go to somebody from Barcelona. The Spanish league is relatively difficult to watch compared to the FAWSL so it can be very easy to forget how good this team is.
But the brutal and stylish way that they brushed aside both Arsenal and Chelsea in the Champions League were reminders that they are currently operating on another level completely.
The award can only go to one player though and that will probably be Lieke Martens.
She has won almost every individual award available to her so far and deservedly so. Martens ticks all the boxes for a Ballon D’or winner. She plays with an eye-catching style but her flair is backed up by impact, she creates goals from wide and scores them when she cuts inside, often spectacularly.
In full flight, Martens is simply unstoppable. She’s the best individual player in the best club team and a strong national side. That should be enough to see her win.
My View: Kris Goman:
Above: Alexia Putellas – lynchpin of arguably the greatest team in the world right now. Photo: FC Barcelona.
It will be another tight year to win this award. For my money, I’d be very surprised if Alexia Putellas didn’t walk away with the trophy.
She’s had a stellar year with Barcelona winning both their domestic trophy and the Champions League. In my mind, there’s no doubt Barcelona is the best women’s club team on the planet right now and Putellas is the lynchpin of the team. It would be criminal not to recognize this.
Coming hot on her heels is Sam Kerr. As an Australian, is hard not to be nationalistic about this but the facts are that she’s a prolific scorer. She’s won the golden boot in three competitions multiple times, won the League, the Conti Cup, the FA Cup and got to the final of the Champions League with Chelsea and led Australia to the Bronze medal match of the Olympic Games this year. It’s an impressive resume and she’s a very worthy contender.
Outside chances for my thinking, include Fran Kirby who has had an equally stellar club season as Kerr, Vivianne Miedema who’s been on fire for the last four years scoring goals indiscriminately, and Christine Sinclaire who might get the nod for her long term efforts including getting most international goals ever this year, along with leading Canada to a gold medal at the Olympics.
Who do YOU think will win? Add your thoughts to our post on social media (@ImpetusFootball on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram)
The past week has seen a huge amount of international women’s football. Ben Gilby rounds up the action in detail from Europe, Asia, South America, and North America. Our French editor Jean-Pierre Thiesset provides a special feature on France’s two matches.
Above: Carli Lloyd waves to the crowd ahead of her final international appearance for the USWNT against South Korea. Photo: Soccer Wire
EUROPE:
UEFA’s World Cup qualification games for the 2023 World Cup continued over the past seven days.
Group A sees Sweden three points clear at the top after a 1-0 win in the Republic of Ireland on 21st October. For further news of this game, click here . On the same night, Finland won 3-0 in Georgia. Linda Sällström, Sanni Franssi and an Emmi Alenen penalty completed the win.
Five days later, the Republic of Ireland gained an excellent 2-1 win in Helsinki over Finland. Megan Connolly put the Irish ahead after 10 minutes before Adelina Engman levelled early in the second half before Denise O’Sullivan hit the winner for Vera Pauw’s side. Also that night, Slovakia gained their first win of the campaign with a 2-0 win at home to Georgia. Mária Mikolajová and Martina Šurnovská were on target.
Group B sees Spain and Scotland six points clear of the rest after both nations recorded further victories over the past week. On 22nd October, the Scots needed a last gasp Rachel Corsie goal to overcome Hungary 2-1 at Hampton Park. AC Milan’s Christie Grimshaw put Scotland ahead just before the break, shooting home inside the six-yard box after the visitors failed to deal with Nicola Docherty’s cross. Fanny Vágó took advantage to level when Docherty’s ball towards Jen Beattie was intercepted and she smashed home into the top corner. Corsie sealed the win when her effort after a header back from Beattie found the net. Spain grabbed a comfortable 6-0 win in Ukraine thanks to two goals from Sarriegi Isasa and single strikes from Alexia Putellas, Narea Eizaguirre, Alba Redondo Ferrer, and an own goal by Daryna Apanaschenko. In the group’s other games in the period, Faroe Islands suffered two hefty losses. First, on 21st October, they went down 4-0 in Ukraine with Nicole Kozlova, Roksolana Kravchuk, Olha Boychenko, and Kateryna Korsun on the mark. The Islanders followed that up with a 7-1 reversal at home to Hungary. Lea Lisburg put the hosts ahead but the Hungarians hit back powerfully.Fanny Vágó’s hat-trick, two from Dóra Zeller plus single strikes from Evelin Fenyvesi and Bernadett Zágor completed the rout.
Above: Christie Grimshaw puts Scotland ahead against Hungary. Photo: SNS Group
Group CNetherlands have recovered from their stumble at the start of qualification to lead the table by four points, albeit having played a game more than Iceland. On 22nd October, they returned from Cyprus with an 8-0 win. Jill Roord’s hat-trick, plus goals from Vivianne Miedema, Danielle van de Donk,Joëlle Smits, Merel van Dongen and an own goal from Chara Charalambous gave them the points. They followed this up four days later with a 2-0 win in Belarus with Lieke Martens and van de Donk on target. Iceland kept up their pursuit with two big wins in the other games this window. First, they beat Czech Republic 4-0 in Reykjavik on 22nd October. Barbora Votíková’s own goal set them on their way before further strikes from Dagný Brynjarsdóttir, Svava Rós Guðmundsdóttir and Gunnhildur Jónsdóttir sealed the victory. They followed this up four days later with a 5-0 win at home to Cyprus. Two goals from Sveindís Jónsdóttir, plus one each from Dagný Brynjarsdóttir, Karólína Vilhjálmsdóttir and Alexandra Jóhannsdóttir continued the Icelandic team’s strong start to the qualifying campaign.
Group DEngland’s procession towards qualification continued as they scored 14 goals without reply in two games. They didn’t have it their own way though against Northern Ireland at Wembley in front of just over 23,000 fans last weekend. The Irish produced a typically dogged performance and kept the Lionesses goalless until 64 minutes when Beth Mead put the hosts ahead. A spell of three goals in six minutes wrapped up a 4-0 win with Mead completing a hat-trick and Beth England continuing her impressive recent goal-scoring run for her country too. Three days later, England crashed ten goals past Latvia in Liepaja. An Ella Toone hat-trick, two from Rachel Daly plus single strikes from Ellen White, Millie Bright, Beth Mead, Leah Williamson, and Georgia Stanway put the Lionesses in pole position in the group.
Elsewhere, Northern Ireland held Austria 2-2 in the battle for second place at a sold-out Seaview, but it was so nearly even better for the Green Army. Barbara Dunst put the Austrians ahead but goals from Lauren Wade and Demi Vance put the home side in the driving seat before an equalizer in stoppage time at the end of the match from Stefanie Enzinger denied Northern Ireland all three points.
North Macedonia had conflicting results over the period. On 21st October they won 4-1 in Latvia thanks to two goals fromNataša Andonova and further strikes from Gentjana Rochi and Ulza Maksuti. Tatjana Baļičeva was on target for the Latvians. They followed this up with a frustrating 3-2 loss to Luxembourg five days later. Julie Marques Abreu (2) and Katie Thill earned the visitors a welcome three points. Gentjana Rochi and Pavlina Nikolovska were on target for the Macedonians.
In the group’s other match, Austria cemented second spot, two points behind England with a 5-0 win over Luxembourg. Nicole Billa (2), Katharina Naschenweng, Stefanie Enzinger and a Sarah Puntigam penalty were the difference.
Above: England’s hat-trick hero Ella Toone in action against Latvia. Photo: Lynn Cameron/The FA/Getty Images
Group EDenmark and Russia lead the way with both on 12 points after the latest matches. The Danes hit goals galore in two wins. On 21st October, they saw off Bosnia & Herzegovina 8-0 with Signe Bruun hitting five goals. Also on the mark were Mille Gejl, Pernille Harder and Sara Thrige. Five days later they won 5-1 in Montenegro thanks to two goals from Stine Larsen and further strikes from Signe Bruun, Sofie Svava, and Sanne Troelsgaard. One negative was a worrying injury for star player Pernille Harder. Armisa Kuč scored for Montenegro.
Russia also gained comfortable wins and two clean sheets. First up on 21st October was a 3-0 home win over Malta thanks to goals from Nelli Korovkina, Kristina Mashkova and Anna Belomyttseva. They followed this up five days later with a 4-0 success in Bosnia & Herzegovina. A brace from Anna Kozhnikova plus goals from Nelli Korovkina and Alsu Abdullina clinched the win.
Montenegro saw off Azerbaijan 2-0 on 21st October with goals from Slađana Bulatović and Anđela Tošković. The remaining game in the period saw Malta win 2-1 in Azerbaijan thanks to a penalty from Dorianne Theuma and Emma Xureb’s strike four minutes from the end. Vusala Seyfatdinova got a late consolation for the hosts.
Group F Norway are two points clear at the top after picking up four points from two games against their closest group rivals. They were held 0-0 by second-placed Poland on 21st October, but gained a vital 4-0 win over Belgium in Oslo five days later. Guro Bergsvand, Caroline Graham Hansen, Elisabeth Terland and Ingrid Syrstad Engen were on the mark.
Poland came back to form with a 2-0 win over Albania on 26th October thanks to a penalty from Paulina Dudek and Małgorzata Mesjasz’s effort. Belgium defeated Kosovo 7-0 with Tessa Wulleart grabbing a hat-trick on top of Justine Vanhaevermaet’s brace and single strikes from Janice Cayman and Tine De Caigny.
Elsewhere in the group, Armenia suffered two further defeats. First, on 21st October they went down 5-0 in Albania due to goals from Megi Doci (2) Mimosa Hamidi (2), and Esi Lufo. Five days later they fell 1-0 at home to Kosovo in the battle of the group’s bottom sides. Liridona Syla’s goal was the difference.
Above: Action from Norway’s home game with Belgium (white). Photo: RBFA
Group GSwitzerland and Italy are still out front as they both recorded two further victories over the past week. The Swiss saw off Romania 2-0 with Ana-Maria Crnogorčević scoring both (one penalty). She was on target again five days later in her country’s 5-0 win over Croatia. Noelle Maritz, Ramona Bachmann (two – one penalty), and Rachel Rinast also scored.
The Italians defeated Croatia 3-0 in Castel di Sangro on 21st October with Valentina Cernoia, Cristiana Girelli (penalty), and Valerie Pirone on the scoresheet. They followed this up with a 5-0 success in Lithuania five days later with Valentina Cernoia, Valerie Pirone, Valentina Giacinti, Sara Gama, and Arianna Caruso on the scoresheet.
Group HGermany’s procession towards qualification continued. A 1-0 win in Israel thanks to Svenja Huth’s goal was added to five days later with a 7-0 thrashing of the same opposition. Jule Brand (2), Sara Däbritz, Laura Freigang, Lina Magull, Tabea Waßmuth and Felicitas Rauch scored.
Portugal are second, two points behind after recording double success over the period. First, they saw off Serbia 2-1 at home with goals from Ana Borges and Dolores Silva. Nina Matejić hit the Serbs’ effort. They followed this up with a 5-0 success in Bulgaria. Diana Silva (2), Diana Gomes, Carole Costa (pen), and an own goal from Yanitsa Ivanova was the difference.
In the other games in the group, Turkey had mixed fortunes. They saw off Bulgaria 1-0 on 21st October with Yağmur Uraz on target. Five days later they succumbed to a 2-0 loss in Serbia. Dejana Stefanović and Nevena Damjanović were the scorers.
Finally to Group I where Impetus’ Jean-Pierre Thiesset reports on France’s two games over the period. The first saw them host Estonia in Créteil, near Paris, on October 22, in front of 4,378 spectators. For this game against a very weak team (105th in FIFA ranking), Corinne Diacre, France head coach, left out several of the first-choice players like Amandine Henry and Eugénie Le Sommer. Furthermore, Wendie Renard, Amel Majri, Griedge MBock, and Kheira Hamraoui were also missing due to injury. With half of the main players missing, France dominated largely Estonia and scored 11 goals, and earned a clean sheet.
The game statistics show the huge difference between the two teams: For France, 88% of possession, 720 passes (89% successful), 40 shots (16 on target), 14 corners; For Estonia, 12% of possession, 112 passes (42% successful), one shot (none on target), no corner.
The first and only shot of Estonia was at the 71st minute.
A few highlights from this game:
A great game from Delphine Cascarino, who played 62 minutes (one goal at the 29th minute, one decisive pass to Geyoro at the fifth minute) and was named player of the match.
Eve Perisset played 90 minutes, made a decisive pass with a cross at ground level to Katoto at the 15th minute and scored once at the 26th minute.
Kenza Dali, who entered at half time, produced a great second half. She scored one goal at the 90th minute, made two decisive passes to Tounkara (65th and 72nd minutes), and forced an Over Goal from Heleri Saar with a great corner kick.
Goals for France from Grace Geyoro (5′), Marie-Antoinette Katoto (15′), Eve Périsset (26′ on penalty), Delphine Cascarino (29′), Sandy Toletti (45′), Maria Orav (52′ Own Goal), Kadidiatou Diani (53′), Aissatou Tounkara (65′, 72′), Heleri Saar (79′ Own Goal), and Kenza Dali (90′).
Estonia: Kork – Merisalu (Kriisa 88′), H. Saar, Zlidnis, Liir, Orav (M. Saar 73′) – Bannikova, Mengel (Niit 63′), Daut, Kubassova – Treiberg (Aarna 46′ then Israel 88′).
Referee: Abigail Marriott (England)
The second game was away to Kazakhstan at the Astana Arena in front of around 300 spectators. For this game against a side ranked 82nd in the FIFA list, Corinne Diacre, France squad coach, had the same squad as against Estonia but with one more player out, Grace Geyoro. France dominated Kazakhstan, made another clean sheet, but scored only five goals lacking efficiency in front of the goal; Part of this is probably due to the synthetic field on which the players had a lack of stability but also to the great performance of Kazakhstan goalkeeper in the second half. France had more than 30 crosses during this game: seven from Kenza Dali, seven from Eve Périsset, five from Delphine Cascarino, four from Perle Morroni.
The game statistics show France domination: For France, 79% of possession, 681 passes (87% successful), 36 shots (15 on target), 18 corners; For Kazakhstan, 21% of possession, 201 passes (51% successful), one shot (none on target), no corner.
A few highlights from this game:
Kenza Dali, who played 68 minutes, made a great game with one goal (17′) and two decisive passes (9′, 23′).
Marie-Antoinette Katoto scored two goals (9′, 23′) playing only the first half.
Melvine Malard scored her two first goals for France squad (38′, 54′), both on a header. She had a few other opportunities.
Goals for France from Marie-Antoinette Katoto (9′, 23′), Kenza Dali (17′), Melvine Malard (38′, 54′).
Above: Wales celebrate Helen Ward’s goal against Estonia in front of a record crowd. Photo: FAW
Elsewhere in the group, Wales cemented second spot with four points over the period. First, a 1-1 draw in Slovenia came when Kayleigh Green equalized Manja Rogan’s strike. They followed this point with a 4-0 win over Estonia in front of a record crowd to watch a Welsh women’s international match of 5,455 at the Cardiff City Stadium. Angharad James, Helen Ward, Tash Harding, and Sophie Ingle were on target.
Greece won 1-0 in Kazakhstan with a goal from Grigoria Pouliou five minutes from time. They went down 4-1 at home to Slovenia four days later. Two goals apiece from Mateja Zver and Lara Prašnikar was the difference. Despoina Chatzinikolaou converted an early penalty for the Greeks.
ASIA:
Above: Myanmar’s San Thaw Thaw (right), who scored two goals for her country in Group D. Photo: The Hindu
The remaining qualifying matches for the 2022 Asian Cup took place over the past week or so with Groups A and D completed.
In Group A, Chinese Taipei went through as qualifiers. They began their campaign with a 4-0 wins over Laos with two goals from Lai Li-chin plus further strikes from Chen Yen-ping and Su Yu-hsuan in Bahrain. They completed their campaign by defeating Bahrain 2-0 thanks to Lai Li-chin. The other game in the group ended in a 0-0 draw between Laos and Bahrain.
Groups B and C were completed in September. Click here for details.
Group D saw six games and goals galore over a seven-day period in Bishkek. Ultimately it was the opening game between Myanmar and Lebanon that decided the outcome. Myanmar comfortably overcame the Lebanese 4-0 with goals from Win Theingi Tun (penalty), Myat Noe Khin, San Thaw Thaw and July Kyaw. United Arab Emirates saw off Guam 2-1 in the first round of games due to a Nouf Al-Adwan penalty with nine minutes to go. April Talledo had put Guam ahead before Naeema Ibrahim levelled.
The second matchday saw Myanmar get their second win in emphatic style as Guam were swept aside 8-0. Two goals from both Win Theingi Tun and San Thaw Thaw, plus further strikes from Myat Noe Khin, Khin Mo Mo Tun, Pont Pont Pyae Maung and July Khaw sealed the success. Lebanon saw off the United Arab Emirates 1-0 thanks to Syntia Salha’s goal.
The final set of games saw Myanmar complete their perfect record with a 2-0 win over the United Arab Emirates with Khin Mo Mo Tun and Chit Chit on target. Lebanon concluded with a 2-0 success against Guam. Hanin Tamim grabbed two goals and Layla Iskander scored.
AFRICA:
Above: Ivory Coast, who had a large two-legged win over Niger in the African Women’s Cup of Nations first qualifying round. Photo: Ghana Football
The past week has seen 22 two-legged matches in the first qualifying round for the first-ever African Women’s Cup of Nations. Uganda overcame Ethiopia on penalties after the matches ended 2-2 on aggregate. Kenya overcame South Sudan 15-1 on aggregate with Burundi 6-0 winners over Eritrea over the two games. Djibouti gained a walkover against Rwanda with Zambia, stars of the Olympics in the summer edging past Malawi 4-3. Namibia overcame Tanzania 5-3, Zimbabwe saw off Eswatini 6-1 with Botswana 7-1 winners against Angola. Algeria won their first leg against Sudan 14-0 but, as yet, the second match has not been played due to security concerns after a coup in Sudan. Equatorial Guinea progressed after DC Congo did not compete. Togo progressed after Sao Tome and Principe withdrew after the first match which ended 5-0 to Togo. South Africa saw off Mozambique 13-0, Tunisia beat Egypt 7-2 and Gabon beat Congo on away goals after the aggregate score finished 2-2. Cameroon overcame the Central African Republic 3-0, Gambia saw off Sierra Leone 3-1 and Senegal dismissed Liberia 8-1. In the last batch of games, Mali beat Guinea 4-1, Guinea-Bissau saw off Mauritania 2-0, Burkina Faso won 5-2 over Benin, Nigeria edged Ghana 2-1 and Ivory Coast dismissed Niger 20-0.
FRIENDLIES:
Above: The Jamaican team pictured earlier this year. Photo: Loop Jamaica
Jamaica, fielding Manchester City’s Khadija Shaw and Chelsea’s Drew Spence, drew 0-0 with Costa Rica.
Spain overcame Morocco 3-0 on 21st October thanks to two goals from Athena del Castillo and one from Amaiur Sarriegi.
USA were held 0-0 by South Korea on 21st October in front of 18,467 fans in Kansas City. The World Champions mustered 68% of possession and had eight shots on target to Korea’s one, but frustratingly couldn’t breakthrough.
The following day saw Australia defeat Brazil 3-1 in Parramatta thanks to goals from Clare Polkinghorne, Mary Fowler and Emily van Egmond. Adriana scored for Brazil in front of 15,270 fans. For our coverage of the game, click here
Above: Canada take on New Zealand. Photo: Kate Tigchelaar.
Canada played their first game at home since taking the Gold Medal at the Olympics and earned a 5-1 win over New Zealand in the process. Two goals from Adriana Leon, plus strikes from Jessie Fleming, Christine Sinclair and Nichelle Prince were the difference. Ria Percival scored for the Football Ferns from the penalty spot in a game played at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa.
Colombia defeated Olympic qualifiers Chile 2-0 thanks to goals from Linda Alegria and Manuela Vanegas.
Despite having more possession and better passing accuracy, Argentina crashed to a 6-1 loss to Mexico. Florencia Bonsegundo put Argentina ahead after 11 minutes, but a staggering spell of four Mexican goals in the five minutes either side of halftime turned the game on its head. Stephany Mayor hit two in sixty seconds (one penalty), Alison Gonzalez and Maria Sanchez all scored in this period. Another Gonzalez strike and a goal five minutes from time from Joseline Montoya completed an incredible result.
We have news from four further friendlies played on 26th October. First, Australia played a dramatic 2-2 draw with Brazil in Parramatta in front of 12,087 in Parramatta. Clare Polkinghorne and Sam Kerr put the Matildas 2-0 ahead before Erika and Debinha hit back for Brazil. For our coverage of the game click here
Above: Sweden celebrate against Scotland in Paisley. Photo: SNS Group
Sweden won 2-0 in Scotland. The match was played in very wet and windy conditions in Paisley. The Scots put up a good fight, but Sweden extended their unbeaten record in matches played over 90 minutes to 22 thanks to second-half goals from Fridolina Rolfo and a Sophie Howard own goal.
Canada won their second clash with New Zealand 1-0 courtesy of Adriana Leon’s strike.
USA marked Carli Lloyd’s final international appearance with a 6-0 win over South Korea in front of 18,115 in St. Paul. Lindsey Horan put the USWNT ahead with nine minutes on the clock. An own goal from Cho So-hyun made it 2-0 at the break. Alex Morgan made it three before a further three goals in the last five minutes from Megan Rapinoe, Rose Lavelle and Lynn Williams completed a fitting send-off for a legend of the women’s game.
Above: Women’s football legend Carli Lloyd waves to the crowd after her final game of international football. Photo: Brad Smith/Getty Images
Impetus are proud to sponsor Leah Embley, who plays for Brighouse Town in the FA Women’s National League Northern Premier. Around two months into Leah’s first campaign with Brighouse and the club’s debut season in tier three, she caught up with Ben Gilby.
Above: Leah Embley gets in a shot for Brighouse Town against West Bromwich Albion. Photo supplied by Leah Embley.
We last spoke to Leah in August when she had just signed for Brighouse Town from FA Women’s Championship side Blackburn Rovers. The talented midfielder updated us with how she has settled into life with the Yorkshire side.
“I feel as though I’ve settled in really well. The girls and staff have made me feel really welcome. I’m loving every second of playing for this club.
“We have a great squad on and off the pitch, everybody gets on and has a laugh, definitely makes things easier going on to the pitch knowing everybody has your back and you have theirs.
“Pre-season was a good chance to bond with the girls and get to know how everybody plays. It was enabled me to score a few goals and boost my confidence back up.”
Ahead of the FA Women’s National League Northern Premier season kicking off, Leah set herself some personal targets on top of the ones that the club set.
“On a personal level, I wanted to score a few early goals and have a good start in terms of performance level. I have high standards in terms of what I expect from myself, sometimes I am too hard on myself possibly, but it makes me continue to push and want more.
“With this being our first season in this league we wanted to settle but also compete with every team we faced which I think we have done.”
Above: Leah Embley in action against West Bromwich Albion recently. Photosupplied by: Leah Embley
“In the first game of the season against Derby County, we pushed them to the very end, we battled hard and we made a statement that we aren’t in the league to make up the numbers.
“Unfortunately we’ve drawn a few games where we have been the better team but haven’t taken our chances, but to only lose one so far in the league is a credit to the staff and girls here.”
Whilst this is Brighouse Town’s first-ever campaign in the third tier, Leah has played in the division before. She assessed how the current Brighouse team compares to other teams you’ve come across in the division in the past.
“I feel as though we’ve got a togetherness which is important. We have competition and strength in every single position, we have no weak players. Sometimes you can play off a team’s weaknesses but I think teams would struggle to pick a weakness in our side, especially when we have an all-round great squad fully fit.”
Among the recent games for Brighouse was one against Burnley, a team that Leah had success with previously.
“Obviously I wanted to win the game, I want to win every game but this one felt a little bit different as I learned my trade in a way whilst I was there. I had amazing memories and that was probably the turning point in my career when I realized how much potential I had. I respect all the girls there that I played with and the staff have always been incredible with me. It was good to get the win and it was a well-fought three points that we deserved.”
Coming into a new club playing at the highest level they’ve ever been at is one full of challenges. For Leah, the toughest hurdle so far came on the opening day.
Above: Leah about to beat her marker against West Bromwich Albion. Photo supplied by: Leah Embley.
“Losing against Derby County in that first game and bringing ourselves back together after losing was tough, but we took the positives out of the performance and worked on our weaknesses.”
Looking at the positive side of things, Leah is pleased with how her personal performances have been going, form which was capped with a player of the match award after scoring two outstanding goals against Stoke City on 10th October.
“I am really happy with my form and how I’ve been playing. I’ve always been a player that pushes myself and empties the tank every training session and every game. I am still learning and I feel like the confidence the manager and players have given me has allowed me to express myself a lot, that’s helped massively especially being an attacker.”
Having now been at the club for a few months, Leah believes that there is a bright future ahead for Brighouse Town.
“We can definitely push on. We can compete with every team in this league and it would be nice to get as far as we can in the cup competitions too.”
The draw for the 2022 Asian Cup, which takes place during January in India took place today. Impetus’ Ben Gilby got reaction to the draw from Australia’s head coach Tony Gustavsson and assistant Mel Andreatta.
Artwork: Football Australia
The draw for the 2022 Asian Cup in India was made earlier today and Australia will be in Group B which also contains Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines who are now led by former Matildas head coach Alen Stajcic.
The Matildas will face the Philippines in their second game on Monday 24th January 2022 after opening against Indonesia on Friday 21st January and finishing the opening stage by taking on Thailand on Thursday 27th January. Matches for the competition will be taking place in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and Pune.
The other groups drawn today see China, Chinese Taipei, India, and Iran in Group A with Japan, South Korea, Myanmar and Vietnam in Group C.
Australia’s head coach Tony Gustavsson spoke about his plans for ensuring the team have the best possible chance of success.
“Finally we know exactly what is ahead of us! So let’s start preparing. Going into any tournament, the opening game is always key. We have to focus 100% on getting a good start against Indonesia. We will do all the prep for all the group stage opponents, but the first game is important. Once you are in the tournament you can update that scouting ahead of the second and third game in the group.”
With just over two months to go before that first group game for The Matildas, Gustavsson spoke about preparation.
“We have an important camp coming up in November which will be the last FIFA window before we go and announce the roster for the tournament.
Above: Matildas head coach Tony Gustavsson, who is going off to his first Asian Cup. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia
“We then have a lot of preparation time. It’s all about planning the smallest thing – the size of the pitches, type of grass and when it’s going to be watered. Plus scout the opponents, not just the group but who we may play if we win the group or come second in the group, what travelling around for the tournament looks like. Every little detail.”
With this being Gustavsson’s first Asian Cup, the Matildas head coach spoke about what he is most looking forward to: “I’ve spoken to players and staff around me who have far more experience of the tournament than me and I’m curious to get to play new teams that I haven’t played before.
“I’ve played Thailand before in a World Cup, but the other teams I haven’t. I can’t wait, but I need to take a lot from the staff and players around me who have Asian Cup experience.”
Matildas assistant coach Mel Andreatta was asked by the gathered press about the prospect of facing Stajcic and the Philippines.
“The group presents unique challenges for different reasons. We’ll be taking it one game at a time and make sure we put our best performances in each game.
Above: Matildas assistant coach Mel Andreatta. Photo: Football Queensland.
“Alen, with his experience of our team and the individuals will present us with a unique challenge that we need to prepare for. Despite the fact that he knows our players well, we’ve still got to go out there to prepare our best and get a result in the second game in the group.
“We’ve had a coaching change in the past six months and a big thing that Tony Gustavsson has brought to us is game management and all the tools we now have for each opponent. This allows us to perform and manage games, to find a way to win.”
With the Asian Cup doubling as a World Cup qualifying competition for the continent’s nations, Australia have already qualified for the World Cup as co-hosts, so Andreatta was asked if this might change their approach in terms of selecting a slightly less experienced team than they might have otherwise.
“Tony talked about pressure at an earlier press conference. This is an opportunity for all the playing group whether they are new or experienced to find that drive or strength and resolve despite already having qualified for the World Cup. In a high-performance sport that’s what it’s all about.”
Above: The 2010 Matildas who won the Asian Cup. Photo: Football Australia
The point was made that, due to Covid, all of Australia’s group opponents have played very little international football and whether that would impact scouting ahead of the competition, however, Andreatta felt the Matildas were in a good place in terms of gathering knowledge about their opening three opponents.
“Our scouting set up means we can look at what their players are doing with the international team but also with their club team because despite they might not have as many match minutes as a nation, in a FIFA window you don’t have that much time together anyway.
“It’s about individual key players they have and how you can contain them or expose them. We feel that it’s all really our playing style and the way we prepare for a game can contain or expose any opponent. We’ll focus on us with the knowledge on key players that we can put together to ensure that we are prepared.”
Finally, the Matildas assistant coach spoke about how preparations will go in terms of matches ahead of the Asian Cup.
“We will be maximising the FIFA windows and we’re looking for a variety of high-quality opponents so we can keep building our playing style and testing it and be challenged by other team’s style.”
Impetus’ Kieran Yap analyses Australia’s two games against Brazil over the past five days and asserts that whilst it wasn’t perfect, there are some positive signs from Tony Gustavsson’s team.Photo: Football Australia.
Marta is one of the best players the world has seen. Brazil is consistently one of the world’s most dangerous teams.
Yes, The Matildas conceded a two-goal lead and had to settle for a draw after a ridiculously high-energy match. However it should not be forgotten that Brazil, try as they might with an excellent new coach and with all their pedigree and talent, still cannot beat Australia after five years of entertaining attempts.
They play with joy and their supporters turned both games into a celebration of their team and culture but Marta and co were not here to make friends.
This was one of the greatest individual talents, playing near her best to try and set right an odd wrinkle in Brazilian football.
And what a player she is. She has lost very little pace, obviously her vision remains and it is near impossible to take the ball off her when she’s not ready to pass it.
But what stood out in especially in the second game was her tenacity. She was here to win, to make a statement that Brazil can beat Australia, and to put on a show. That The Matildas can go toe-to-toe with a football giant time and time again and not lose since 2016 is a real feather in the caps of these players, even those receiving their very first.
Above: Marta embraces Alanna Kennedy after the second match on Tuesday. Photo: Channel 10
Australia’s performance over the two games was something we have not seen from the team in the Gustavsson era. There was very little obvious defensive planning. Tameka Yallop tended to drop back when Australia lost the ball but Ellie Carpenter was allowed essentially a free role and Steph Catley was up and down the wing in the way she was for Melbourne City.
Perhaps to help regain the mojo of the team after a lackluster outing in Ireland or maybe purely to give the home crowd something to cheer, Gustavsson released any tactical shackles from the team.
He said in the early press conferences that there would be a lot of space and it would be a fast attacking game. Australia is a side perfectly capable of shutting down games when they need to. They restricted the usually free-scoring Sweden to a 1-0 win and the U.S.A to a 0-0 draw in Tokyo.
The fact that they made no effort to do so against Brazil had to be deliberate. Perhaps Gustavsson wants to prepare the players to execute this sort of match in case they find themselves in another shootout like the Bronze medal game. Maybe he wanted to let his players trade punches with Brazil knowing they were better.
Whatever his reasons, the two games were a joy to watch. Alanna Kennedy looked to have played her way back into form. One unfortunate slip aside, she put in her best performances since the Olympic Quarter Final.
Australia need a confident Alanna Kennedy. There is a reason she has played 101 games for Australia. She was calm and focused in the second match when faced repeatedly with Marta and Debinha.
Clare Wheeler and Kyra Cooney-Cross both showed they can be viable if very different options as deep midfielders. Some of Cooney-Cross’ long passes and ability to step into space were incredible to watch.
Above: Alanna Kennedy pictured during her first cap (left) and in her hundredth on Saturday (right). Photo: Football Australia
She looked slightly overwhelmed by the Brazil midfield in the second match but this is a 19-year-old who has trained most of her career as a striker or winger.
Her passing range, positional awareness, decision-making, and ball control made her a local star. She is clearly ready to step into the international spotlight based on her talent.
Wheeler was excellent in the final 45 minutes of the series. She adds grit to the midfield and can pick a pass. She is a more natural fit for the role, but her last season at Sydney FC aside, this is her specialty.
Australia are without Chloe Logarzo and Elise Kellond-Knight at least for the time being. Given the importance of those players, they need every opportunity to recover patiently.
Wheeler, Cooney-Cross, and also Fowler’s sudden dominance of midfield give them that and give Australia options.
On Fowler, all logic says to slow down the hype, let her grow without the pressure to star. Our brains tell us to calm down, but our eyes tell us something different.
She can dribble in tight areas, pass quickly off either foot, spread play from deep, or shoot from basically anywhere. She is an outstanding talent but Australia’s depth in attack means that she is not relied upon to carry the team, although she is allowed to if she’s in the mood.
Above: Charli Grant – huge promise shown in her cameo during Saturday’s first game. Photo for Impetus by: Kris Goman,
One of the lesser heralded but potentially important players to emerge from the series is Charli Grant.
Anybody who watched Adelaide United play last season knows what she is capable of. But even her biggest fans would have been surprised by her slick turn and dribble in the first game.
After spending the Olympics and the two preceding friendly in the squad but with no game time she made her first appearance against Ireland.
Against Brazil, she looked completely at ease at this level, confident and brave with the ball at her feet.
Grant at her best can deputize for either Carpenter or Catley. If she continues to improve so do Australia’s fortunes.
The results weren’t perfect, the performances weren’t perfect but over the two games, confidence and swagger returned to The Matildas.
A lot was gained from the matches against Brazil and as an added bonus, Marta will have to come back at least one more time to try and beat us.
Photo: Fans are encouraged to attend their local women’s game – and there is plenty of action to watch in grounds or on TV. Photo: Chloe Knott/The FA
The weekend of 14th/15th November will see the return of Women’s Football Weekend in England with coverage across Sky Sports, the BBC and The FA Player.
Not only will fans be able to enjoy hours of action from the comfort of their own home, but fans are encouraged to go and support their team whether that is a club in the top tier of the Barclays FA Women’s Super League, where great entertainment and some of the world’s best players will be on display, or further down the pyramid, where passionate players participate with clubs embedded in their local community.
The weekend will see some fiercely fought derbies and developing rivalries in the Barclays FA Women’s Super League with matches spread out across the weekend for fans to watch and attend.
Amongst them, Manchester City will host Chelsea live in front of the Sky cameras, while there will be another North London derby with Tottenham Hotspur hosting Arsenal on BBC One. During the very first Women’s Football Weekend, the Gunners came out on top at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in front of a record crowd of 38,262.
Carla Ward will return to Birmingham City for the first time with Aston Villa in a much anticipated West Midlands derby, while Brighton & Hove Albion will return to The AMEX Stadium to host promoted Leicester City.
The FA Women’s Championship promises to be equally exciting with every game being streamed on The FA Player for the second Women’s Football Weekend running. High flying Durham and Liverpool will meet in the North East, while there is a South London derby between Charlton Athletic, now led by Karen Hills, and Crystal Palace.
In addition to the top two tiers, the First Round Proper of the Vitality Women’s FA Cup is due to be played, with 56 ties to be played across the country.
Speaking about the launch of 2021’s Women’s Football Weekend, Kelly Simmons, The FA’s Director of the Women’s Professional Game said: “Women’s Football Weekend is such a significant event within our season because it’s an opportunity to really showcase the very best of our sport.
“With some of the best players in the world showcasing their talents in some of the biggest matches of the season, this is a real opportunity for fans to be part of a big weekend of action.
“But this isn’t just about the top of the pyramid. Women’s Football Weekend is for everyone and I hope those at grassroots level also see new fans coming to their matches and really embrace the spirit of what the weekend is all about – our mutual love of the game.”
Barclays FA Women’s Super League matches not selected for broadcast over the weekend will be available to stream live on The FA Player, where all FA Women’s Championship matches will also be available live.
Above: The FAW press conference announcing their female football strategy. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Association of Wales.
The Football Association of Wales released their women and girls’ strategy for 2021-2026, with a mission to create the best environment, support structures, and opportunities to accelerate the growth of women’s football, to make it reach its full potential.
Titled “Our Wales: For Her, Ein Cymru: Amdani Hi”, the six-year strategy details a vision to inspire confidence in women & girls to be their best self and can be viewed here.
Ahead of Cymru’s FIFA Women’s World Cup Qualifier against Estonia at Cardiff City Stadium, the FAW shared its specific targets for women and girls’ football in Wales, which are set out to allow the game to grow faster, stronger and have a platform it deserves.
Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Association for Wales
Last month the FAW released its new vision and strategic plan, ‘Our Wales, Ein Cymru’ which maps out the path ahead for Welsh Football and detailed a clear focus to double the size of the women and girls’ game.
In recent years, the FAW has witnessed a 50% increase in participation, with now over 10,000 registered female players. Yet the FAW have set an ambitious goal to double that number and have 20,000 women and girls playing football by 2026. By ensuring every girl has the opportunity to be involved in football, the FAW look forward to working with partners across Wales to guarantee the female game has the platform to reach its potential. The FAW’s commitment to doubling the women’s game, not only includes a doubling of participation but a pledge to doubling its fan base and investment to further accelerate the growth of the women and girls’ game.
FAW Head of Women’s and Girls’ Football, Lowri Roberts said: “This is only the first half for our game, and with the increased investment and focus from the FAW, we aim to capitalise on recent growth and momentum. We strive to inspire future generations through our Cymru national team and create opportunities and environments where girls feel truly accepted in a sport that is for all.”
Above: Eliot Sayavong (14, centre) slots home the winnerfor Pride Park. Photo: Shaun Hardwick.
The teams fought out an extremely close and competitive game at Moorways only two weeks ago, with Belper coming away with the points thanks to a late penalty in a 3-2 win. Therefore, another close fought and competitive game was expected.
Under a grey, overcast sky the game was played on a pitch that was soft underfoot and would cut up during the game, causing some players to have difficulty staying on their feet, particularly after a heavy rain shower mid-way through the game.
Pride Park welcomed Eliot Sayavong back after missing the last three games, as well as Rachel Weaver and Hannah Roberts who missed last week’s game against Wirksworth.
Park came flying out of the blocks from the start, winning possession from Belper’s kick-off, and building up down the right. It wasn’t clear who crossed, but the ball was switched across the Belper area and found Jess Page in space, with time to take a touch and hit a shot on target, but it was diverted away by Emma Varnam in the Belper goal.
Photo: Hannah Roberts comes away with the ball. Photo: Shaun Hardwick
It was an early warning for Belper, which was double underlined within a few seconds as Bleu Lewis-Wilson beat her defender and crossed from the left, for Summer Evans to head wide of the ‘keeper to give Pride Park the lead within a minute of kick-off.
Although Belper responded to going behind with a couple of shots, Jade Howell saving the first of these a couple of minutes after the goal and seeing another go wide after ten minutes, it was Pride Park making most of the running in the early stages. However, despite having good possession and stretching Belper’s defence at times, they defended well and the visitors only created three clear chances, none of which troubled the Belper goalkeeper.
Park were playing some really good football at this stage and were keeping Belper penned back, but a counter-attack from the hosts after 26 minutes proved the old adage that you have to score when on top, as they broke clear to equalise. It looked offside when the ball was headed on for Alice Faulding to race clear and steer the ball wide of Jade Howell. After a brief consultation between the referee and assistant – suggesting the referee had his doubts – the goal was nevertheless given; it was disappointing for Pride Park, but the officials can only give what they see and as they see it.
The goal gave Belper fresh impetus and they had the better of the second quarter of the game. It was now Park’s turn to get goal side, chase, defend and block as they now struggled to get hold of and retain the ball, although not aided by defending too deep at times, which was almost inviting the pressure. It was almost a mirror image of the first quarter of the game, though, as real chances remained at a premium and the hosts limited Belper to two shots, both off target, and made a couple of excellent blocks.
During this period, Belper won a corner on the right and the ball was delivered plum into the danger area in the centre of the goal, just on the edge of the six yards box. Jade Howell took command to come out bravely and strongly into the crowd and punch the ball clear under considerable pressure – just what was needed – and excellent goalkeeping at an important stage of the game.
Above: Jade Howell collects watched by Pride Park’s Beth Jones (2) and Belper’s Alice Faulding (9). Photo: Shaun Hardwick
Underlining how finely balanced the game was, the visitors finished the half with a chance to score, but Summer Evans’ shot was saved by the Belper ‘keeper, so at half-time, it remained all square at 1-1.
Both teams more or less cancelled each other out in the early stages of the second half, although Belper had a couple of good opportunities – both kept out again with excellent saves from Jade Howell.
At the other end, Summer Evans went close a couple of times, but as the game entered the final quarter it felt like Park stepped up a gear, and started to enjoy more possession in the Belper half, picking up second balls and pinning the hosts back. The Pride seemed to have had a lot of corners throughout the game, which with excellent deliveries from Tash Allderidge were always a threat. A series of corners was capped off with a quarter of an hour to play by another excellent delivery by Tash falling to Eliot Sayavong who steered the ball through the crowd with her left foot for her first goal for Pride Park.
Inevitably, Belper responded and saw one shot go wide and another hit the foot of the post, but otherwise Park managed the game out well for a very satisfying and welcome three points.
It was yet another extremely finely balanced and competitive game. It perhaps wasn’t quite as entertaining as the game a couple of weeks ago, being something of a battle in more challenging conditions, but was nevertheless another enthralling contest that could have gone either way.
Next Sunday the Ladies travel to Wirksworth (KO 1.30pm)
impetusfootball.org 