Raso strike provides consolation but Australia still fall to Colombia

Australia 1-2 Colombia

by Genevieve Henry (26/2/25)

Above: Hayley Raso. Photo: Football Australia.

From the opening minute, the Matildas looked noticeably better than they had in their previous matches in the SheBelieves Cup. Although they managed to avoid conceding right from the get go, Australia once again could not find the back of the net before their opponent and lost 2-1. The Matildas looked to be the stronger side, but Colombia were the ones that made their chances count. 

Emily Van Egmond was the player of the first half, working hard in defense and attack. She made multiple vital blocks and steals when Colombia were in promising positions to score, as well as finding and placing the ball in the box for her teammates who could not convert. Van Egmond’s passing was on point and a highlight of the match.

The first ten minutes had a lot of back and forth, with Yallop and Van Egmond both nearly finding the goal and Micah palming away a good shot from Leicy Santos. Colombia kept some possession in the Matildas half, but found their joy largely in transitional play. Although Australia looked promising, they failed to make anything count in their spells of possession. 

Colombia took the lead through Wendy Bonilla in her first goal for her country. After a poor pass from Katrina Gorry, Mayra Ramirez played a perfect ball across the field to the winger who found herself free. Bonilla’s shot was perfectly placed to beat Micah who ultimately had no chance.

Australia had two perfect opportunities to put themselves back in it, but took too long in the pivotal moment. Heyman had a golden chance to level the score when Van Egmond nicked the ball at the top of the box and sent it right to her feet in the 21st minute, but Heyman got stuck in indecision.

Just a few minutes later, Gorry stole the ball in prime position as Colombia were once again sloppy in the back, but sent it to Kyra Cooney-Cross whose positioning was uncharacteristically high throughout the match. The midfielder took a second too long to get her shot away and was thwarted by an excellent sliding tackle. 

Australia continued to look the stronger of the teams, but couldn’t make anything of it. They connected passes much better, although it was a low bar. There were certainly glimpses of good things, especially in the midfield and defense. 

The Matildas continued to have chances to score up until the half when Steph Catley delivered an excellent corner that ended up on the head of Clare Hunt, who had her effort tipped just wide by Giraldo. 

Ellie Carpenter, who was finding a lot of joy down the right flank, was unfortunately forced off right before half with injury, allowing Kaitlyn Torpey to make her first appearance of the tournament.

Tom Sermanni made two changes at the half, bringing on Caitlin Foord and Tash Prior in the places of Heyman and Catley. Both proved to be excellent substitutions, providing energy and stability in the second half. 

Australia had another big chance missed through Cooney-Cross in the 51st minute, when the midfielder found herself once again in an unfamiliar position and unable to make the hard work of Raso’s run and perfect cross pay off. A few minutes later, Foord had her first opportunity of the match that saw an impressive shot fly just wide. 

A theme of this match was the Australian players who needed to prove themselves stepping up and playing well. Hunt looked like the player the country fell in love with during the world cup again, Van Egmond was reminiscent of her younger self, and Charli Grant had her best game in a good while. 

Australia finally found the goal they had been chasing through Raso, when she controlled Grant’s cross beautifully and pushed it through a few Colombian defenders. While the goal took a big deflection, it was all the Matildas needed for a brief sigh of relief. 

Colombia took the lead again with a lucky goal as Catalina Usme’s shot took a big deflection, leaving Micah powerless. Usme was completely unmarked at the top of the box, with the brief lapse in concentration by the midfield and defense making Australia pay.

The Matildas continued to work away, having several efforts look promising as the clock ticked away. Fowler created a few good chances, finding her feet more in this match than in the previous two. 

Ultimately, Colombia were the team that made their chances count. Their game management was impressive as they held on and proved they believed more. 

It was not the result Australia wanted to cap off a thoroughly disappointing tournament, but it was a much better game on all accounts. The defense looked much stronger, with Hunt and Micah both having great performances that should cement their roles as starters. The midfield and attack still has work to do when it comes to shots on goal and capitalizing on errors, but the build-up play was far better. 

Teams: COLOMBIA (4-3-3): Giraldo, Guzman, Caracas, Alvarez, Quejada, Martinez, Usme, Ramirez, Santos, Bonilla, Caicedo. Substitutes: Agudelo, Tapia, Arias, Montoya, Restrepo, Reyes, Pavi, Torres, Chacon. 

Scorers: Bonilla 15’, Usme 73’.

AUSTRALIA (4-2-3-1): Micah, Carpenter, Hunt, Catley, Grant, Gorry, Cooney-Cross, Emily Van Egmond, Raso, Yallop, Heyman. Substitutes: Arnold, Kennedy, Fowler, McNamara, Prior, Murphy, Torpey, Foord, Freier, Galic, Lincoln.

Scorer: Raso 69’.

Referee: Katja Koroleva (USA)

Attendance: 10,072.

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Matildas improve but not enough

Australia 1-2 Colombia

Above: Hayley Raso celebrates her goal. Photo: Football Australia

Australia has ended the 2025 SheBelieves Cup winless, after going down to Colombia two goals to one in their final match of the tournament. 

Although it was a better performance from the Matildas and they looked more like the Matildas side of old, it was not enough as goals to Wendy Bonilla and Catolina Usmeultimately saw the Colombians get over the line. Hayley Raso did score a stellar equaliser halfway through the second half, but it was cancelled out minutes later in heat breaking fashion.  

It was an energetic start to the match for both sides, with plenty of chances in front of goal. 

From an Australian perspective, Kyra Cooney-Cross was playing a higher role than she normally does which was proving a successful decision, while Emily van Egmond and Tameka Yallop both had shots that went agonisingly wide. 

Meanwhile Myra Ramirez and Linda Caicedo were unsurprisingly both proving very dangerous options for Colombia, with Caicedo in particular sneaking past the Australian defence on a number of occasions. 

However Colombia’s chances were looking more dangerous than Australia’s, and were rewarded in the 15th minute when Ramirez executed the perfect switch and found Bonilla open on the other side of the field, who then rocketed a shot past Tegan Micah and straight into the back of the net.

The Australians were spending a lot more time in their attacking final third then they have in other matches this tournament but like those other matches, getting shots away and especially on target continued to be a problem the Australians could not fix. 

Although Bonilla’s goal was ultimately the only one in the first half and the Matildas had been less blown off the park than they did in the first too matches, there was still some serious concerns for the Matildas to fix before the second half. 

The evenness of the half time stats accurately reflected what had been happening out on the field. 

Colombia only had about 8% more of the possession and only one more shot on goal than the Matildas, but Colombia finished the half with the two shots on target, while Australia did not record any. 

Proceedings were free flowing early in the second half, with both sides having an even amount of time in attack. Up one end it was Raso looking the most dangerous while up the other end Bonilla was continuing to cause plenty of headaches for the Matildas’ defenders. 

Raso was eventually able to work herself into a more central position and was rewarded after she danced around a number of defenders and slotted through the equaliser in the 69th minute. It may have taken a deflection on the way through, but it was still just reward for the hardworking Raso. 

Heartbreakingly, not even five minutes later Colombia took the lead back after a long bomb from Usme deflected off the back of a Matildas defender and over the head of Micah. 

Despite what the scoreline was showing, it was a more competitive effort from the Matildas. The defence was looking more solid and confident than it had all tournament, and the side’s attacking play was looking more threatening. 

The Matildas kept peppering the Colombian goal but no matter how hard they tried that second equalising goal remained elusive, and as such the Matildas ended the tournament with a third straight loss. 

Teams: AUSTRALIA (4-2-3-1): Micah, Heyman, Hunt,Catley, Van Egmond, Yallop, Raso, Gorry, Carpenter, Grant, Cooney-Cross. Substitutes: Arnold, Murphy, Fowler,McNamara, Heatley, Torpey, Kennedy, Lincoln, Prior, Foord,Galic, Freier.

Scorers: Raso 69’

COLOMBIA (4-2-3-1): Giraldo, Guzman, Caracas, Alvarez, Quejada, Martinez, Usme, Santos, Bonilla, Caicedo, Ramirez. Substitutes: Agudelo, Tapia, Arias, Baron, Arias, Montoya, Restrepo, Reyes, Pavi, Torres, Chacon. 

Scorers: Bonilla 15’, Usme 73’

Referee: Katja Koroleva (USA)

Attendance: 10,072.

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Hahn seals Ferns win in the dying minutes

Costa Rica 0-1 New Zealand

by Jonathon Hagger (26/2/25)

Above: Maja Hahn (centre) celebrates her winning goal for New Zealand in Costa Rica earlier today. Photo: Photosport NZ.

A goal two minutes from the end of regular time in the second half sealed an excellent win for New Zealand in their second and final international in Costa Rica.

After the previous draw between the two sides, the respective head coaches took the opportunity to give some of their players in the wider squad minutes to play on a warm night in San Jose.

Industrious challenges on the left-hand side from Costa Rica did a good job of closing down the Ferns attack. New Zealand demonstrated their intent to use the entire width of the pitch when attacking.

A well-weighted long pass down the right-hand side, cleared the midfield defensive line of the Ferns, finding Priscilla Chinchilla who was well able to beat the defending player. A pass into the Ferns goal area found the head of the striker, Maria Salas, but the header was tipped over the crossbar by Victoria Esson, the Ferns’ goalkeeper. In contrast to the previous match, the visiting defenders increased their effort to get back into defensive position and closed out any empty space.

Sunderland’s Katie Kitching as the appointed free-kick taker did a superb job of placing the ball right on the spot for her players. The Ferns now have at least two players who have demonstrated excellence in taking free kicks being Kitching and Michaela Foster who also plays in the North-East in England’s second tier, for Durham.

Young gun Milly Clegg displayed a lot of confidence in taking shots on goal, both sighted and unsighted. In the past the players would have been more likely to lay off the pass to someone else however Clegg showed that she is willing to have a go. She also showed some fancy footwork on a number of occasions. Skills that she has been developing while playing in the USA.

Above: Milly Clegg (9) on the attack for the Football Ferns. Photo: Photosport NZ.

The Ferns could have opened the scoring in the 24th minute if they had a little more luck.  With the ball being hoisted into the Costa Rican goal area, two attackers were waiting to pounce however, unfortunately for Clegg the ball travelled just millimetres in front of her going out for a goal kick.

On the other side, left-back player Maria Coto, was superb and kept New Zealand’s defenders working hard to shut her down. Coto demonstrated lovely footwork and was very sure when in possession of the ball.

A free kick was awarded to Costa Rica in the 31st minute following an accidental handball by a Ferns defender just outside the goal box and the resulting well-curved shot required Esson to put all her goalkeeper skills to work.

Costa Rica repeatedly demonstrated their prowess in cutting through the Ferns’ defenders on the left-hand side in the first half. Repeated attacks and precision passes down the flank found attacking players in the open. Whereas the defensive work being done on the other side of the pitch by New Zealand was much tighter, giving Costa Rica no way through.                              

The second half played out in the same way as the first half with both teams competing strongly but not being able to find the breakthrough. Costa Rica’s well disciplined formation smothered the Ferns’ attack. The visitors played constructive football, using the entire width of the pitch, but couldn’t capitalise as they struggled to complete their final passes.

The 60th  minute saw an excellent opportunity for Costa Rica to score on the back of smart pass out to the left-hand wing, a great one-v-one battle and the striker being perfectly placed inside the goal area. Esson made two outstanding saves denying the goal-scoring opportunity.

The winning goal of the match came in the 88th minute courtesy of an assist from Macey Fraser whose slick footwork created time for Hahn to unleash a rocket of a shot from the top of the goal box sending the ball into the back of the net, beating the outstretched arm of the goalkeeper.

Above: Football Ferns’ forward and series standout player, Katie Kitching, who plays for Sunderland in the Championship. Photo: Photosport NZ.

Key observations.

A number of individual Costa Rican players made their mark on the match including Alexandra Pinell and Coto. Their style of play is disciplined and constructive. It would be good in future for the players to demonstrate the flair that is often associated with the Central American style.

That flair was fleeting in this match and it may have been advantageous to have displayed it in that it may have been more than the Ferns could handle given the players are based mostly in teams playing a European style.

The chemistry in the Football Ferns team was much more evident in match two. The new formation and intent shown by the players, under the guidance of interim coach Michael Mayne, was very positive.

In the first match, the Ferns resorted to their old tactics of kicking the ball long and hoping for the best. In the second match, the play was much more constructive and disciplined. The use of the entire width of the pitch was great to watch. Many New Zealand supporters will be very pleased to see a new style of play on display being assertive and much more attacking.

Teams: COSTA RICA (4-4-2): Bermudez, Bonilla, Coto, Benavides, Coto, Blanco, Pinell, Valenciano, Alvarado, Barrientos (84’), Chinchilla, Salas. Substitutes used: Morales, Barahona.

NEW ZEALAND (3-4-1-2): Esson, Bunge (65’), Taylor, Clegg (55’), Longo (65’), Anton, Riley, Neville, Foster, Kitching, Hand (55’). Substitutes used: Fraser (55’), Brown (55’), Hahn (65’), Moore (65’), Pijenenberg (78’),

Scorer: Hahn 88′.

Referee: Merlin Soto (HON)

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Wiegman MD-1 Press Conference: “We are not playing football to beat the critics”

Above: Sarina Wiegman and Alessia Russo speak to media at Wembley Stadium Image: Catherine MacKenzie for Impetus

Twenty-four hours away from facing World Champions Spain, Sarina Wiegman and Alessia Russo spoke of the development of the women’s game and the need for fans to realise that there are no easy games anymore.

This evening, England’s Lionesses face a familiar foe: the team that beat them 1-0 in a close World Cup final in 2023. That day was bittersweet for Lioness fans, players and staff alike: the first world cup final appearance for a senior England team since 1966 was a cause for major celebration. However, the result did not go England’s way on the day – despite a penalty save from Mary Earps that solidified her as the world’s best goalkeeper. 

Although not a major tournament final, the game will feel pressured in a different way. England and Spain both start the game in relatively shaky form; Spain conceded two to Belgium last time out, rescuing a win in stoppage time, and England drew 1-1 with Portugal in a mixed performance.

Ahead of this evening’s match, England head coach Sarina Wiegman and player Alessia Russo spoke to media at Wembley Stadium. A relief for England fans will be that Lucy Bronze, subbed off at half time against Portugal as a precaution, is fit for the game. 

Asked about England’s current form and the criticism they have received over recent months, Wiegman reiterated that “we are aware of that” but that they “try to play our best every single game”, reflecting that since the introduction of the Nations League, “no game is going to be easy anymore, the world has changed. We are adapting.” 

Is revenge part of the equation?

Russo and Wiegman were also asked if the game provided an opportunity for revenge. Wiegman was emphatic with her reply: “no, I don’t see it as revenge, I just see it as another game”. Perhaps a key part this message is about the need for realistic expectations. Since winning the Euros and reaching the world cup final, England have struggled to live up to the expectations of the media and public. 

This is in part due to the growth of women’s football. It has developed rapidly in this time, both in terms of investment and technical ability, and it is not as easy to dominate an opponent anymore.

For her part, Russo spoke of the new talent in this Lionesses squad, suggesting that the inclusion of new players brings with it a “new opportunity” to prove themselves against one of the best teams in the world.

The need for social justice 

The duo were inevitably also asked about recent news that Luis Rubiales has been found guilty of the sexual assault of Spanish player Jenni Hermoso, but acquitted of coercion. Wiegman has been a consistent supporter of the Spanish team in their quest for justice – even dedicating her UEFA Coach of the Year award to the Spanish players in 2023. She reiterated today that Spain are showing “resilience and bravery”, and that “we have to keep telling the world that we stand in solidarity with them”.

Russo echoed this sentiment. “We have stood in solidarity with them since it began”, adding that “it’s a testament to the players to speak out but still keep performing at the level they are”. 

Both Wiegman and Russo spoke of the need for these events to be instigators of change, and their hope that in the future, discussions such as these would not require time in a space for football. 

The bigger picture

During the conference, it did not go amiss that the two teams involved are likely favourites for gold in the European Championships this summer. Whilst this Nations League has the ultimate goal of creating a more competitive environment for lower-ranked teams to grow from playing against top opposition, it brings with it the opportunity for blockbuster fixtures that are competitive but do not mean that much for the teams involved. In an era for England where criticism is rife and expectations are high, it is fitting that Wiegman commented “we are not playing football to beat the critics” – her eyes are firmly on this summer.

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Young Matildas lift Four Nations Trophy after second half heroics against Thailand

By Kieran Yap 26/2/25

Above: Sienna Saveska (16) is mobbed by teammates following her third goal. Photo: Tiff Williams. Football Australia

The Young Matildas have lifted the trophy in the PacificAus Four Nations Tournament following a 5-2 win over Thailand U20’s in Canberra. A hatrick to Sienna Saveska combined with goals to Peta Trimis and Caley Tallon-Henniker settled the match despite the brace from Thailand captain Maddie Casteen.

Korby Babington named a strong lineup for the final game of the window. The Young Matildas have scored freely against Vanuatu and The Solomon Islands, but Thailand’s Under 20 side would be their toughest test yet.

Sydney FC star Indiana dos Santos wore the armband, while Saveska returned to the starting lineup, with Peta Trimis also named in an impressive looking attack.

Australia hit the scoreboard in style with a 10th minute strike. Zara Kruger lofted a perfect pass over the Thailand defence, and Saveska’s deft volleyed touch curled the ball around the goalkeeper.

The game was fiercely contested in the middle of the pitch, and while the Young Matildas preferred to retain possession where possible, Thailand looked dangerous on the break.

A terrific solo goal from Casteen levelled the scores in the 19th minute, The North Carolina Courage Academy prospect drove in from the right flank and fired into the net from a seemingly impossible angle.

Dos Santos and Saveska combined in the 27th minute to regain the lead for Australia. Saveska’s cross into the box dipped troublingly for the Thailand defence and Australia had a penalty for a handball.  Saveska scored her second of the game with a cooly taken spot kick.

A cross from deep caused problems for Australia and Casteen had her brace from another composed and powerful finish. The scores were 2-2 going into half time but not before a scare for Australia as Rinyaphat Moondong won possession in attack. Her shot looked goal bound until The Young Matildas scrambled it off the line.

Opportunities were scarcer in the second half, Thailand’s press made it difficult for Australia to build from the back and The Young Matildas midfield strength like life difficult for the visitors to counterattack.

Trimis broke the deadlock in the 70th minute when her low, hard effort squirmed under the goalkeeper to make it 3-2 to Australia.

The best was still to come from Australia and Saveska brought up her hatrick with a spectacular goal. Maddie Caspers’ flicked on header bounced nicely for the Wanderers forward who unleashed a dipping volley of pure precision into the far corner of the net.

That made the score 4-2 and Thailand starting to surge forward while leaving more space at the back. Claire Adams movement put her into a great scoring position but her shot was scuffed wide.

Caley Tallon-Henniker scored the fifth goal in the final seconds on the match when she finished off a flowing end to end move by Australia.

Ilona Melegh’s goal kick started a swift move that sliced open Thailand’s structure, Caspers,  Dos Santos and Talia Younis all combined before Adams’s perfect cross was tapped home by Tallon-Henniker .

Late goals have become a habit o this team during this tournament, but this may have been the best of the lot and put an exclamation point on an excellent performance from Australia’s Under 20 side.

“It’s a good feeling to get a hatrick, said Saveska after lifting the trophy.

“But the performance out there by the girls was amazing and I think we stuck to our plan.

“We knew Thailand was a great team so it was good to get the win in the end.”

The three goals made Saveska the tournament’s leading scorer with six in total. But her focus remained firmly on the team. There is a strong sense of pride that this squad has managed to play so cohesively despite limited time to prepare.

“We’ve had a week and a bit to gel as a team and I think we’ve done just that,” continued Saveska .

“On and off the field we’ve been amazing and tonight shows that against a good squad like Thailand.”

The three wins in three games, all while rotating the squad as often as possible has meant that interim coach Kory Babington has made a strong impression in the role. The players spoke of how his half time encouragement lead to a much stronger performance after the break.

“He’s a great guy and a great coach,” said Saveska.

“I think he deserves a good rap. He’s worked pretty hard and to come and slot in for Leah (Blayney) has been pretty good for him and he’s produced.”

Babington clearly enjoyed his fist time in charge of a national team, and said the tournament pointed to an exciting future for Australian football.

“It’s fantastic,’ he told the media.

“There’s 26 here, we had another four identified as well. We had seven make their debut’s this week, six are still eligible for the Junior Matildas.

“So there’s a lot of depth there across the different age groups. You saw the quality in some of the goals there, a lot of these players have big futures.”

Babington has potentially hut his hand up to continue in the role permanently after this camp, and he says he was aiming to continue the good work put in place by his predecessor.

“I’ve really enjoyed it. Leah left a very good system in place, processes and things like that.

“She did a great job with the girls when she was here. Carrying on from that has been an honour to lead a national team.

“The staff have been fantastic and all contributed. I’d like to thank them for that and Football Australia as well.”

Peta Trimis score the goal to put Australia ahead. She was dangerous in the first half, but deadly in the second. Her pace constantly troubled the Thailand defence and her workrate never ceased, she seemed to thrive on the physicality of the contest at its toughest too.

“We never lost belief,” the playmaker told the media.

“We kept pushing and to get that goal in that stage was a really good feeling for me and to step up for the girls.

“The whole week has gone really well. We’ve been training together only for this week but we’ve really gelled quickly and there’s so much talent coming through so I’m really proud of the girls.”

Trimis starred at the 2024 Asian Cup, and went to the U20 World Cup in Colombia as a result. Although she is still 18, she has extensive experience as a Young Matilda and is eager to pass that on to her new teammates for this World Cupo cycle.

“I’m usually one of the younger girls in the team so to be one of the oldest now, I think it’s a big role for me to step up and help the girls grow and I’m really proud of that.”

This tournament was a successful one for The Young Matildas, although the first two games were made to look easy as Australia ran up the scorelines, when they were faced with a tough, organized and dangerous opponent they rose to the occasion and still put on a show for the home crowd.

There is style in this squad. There is flair, talent and tactical astuteness. The future is bright, and it is very exciting to see where this team can go over the next two years.

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Matildas improve but suffer defeat to new look USWNT

USA 2-1 Australia

By Kieran Yap 23/2/25

Above: Wini Heatley for Australia. Photo:Michael Christy/Football Australia)

The Matildas have responded in encouraging fashion against an inexperienced but talented USA with a 2-1 loss.

Lynn Biyendolo opened the scoring in the first minute for the USWNT with Michelle Cooper doubling the advantage after half time. Michelle Heyman pulled one back for Australia in the final ten minutes, but The Matildas could not find an equaliser.

Australia arrived at the State Farm Stadium in Arizona looking to restore from wounded pride after a comprehensive loss to Japan in game one. In that match, The Matildas could barely get a foothold in the game, and failed to test the Japanese defence while struggling to contain their attack. Before this game, The Nadeshiko put another four goals past Colombia in a display that looks as exciting as it is frightening ahread of next year’s Asian Cup.

Tom Sermanni indicated at the start of the She Believes Cup that he would rotate this squad over the three games, and made some tactical changes after the game one loss. Steph Catley moved to centre back, Alanna Kennedy shifted to her preferred role on the right, Charli Grant came into left back and Wini Heatley partnered Kyra Cooney-Cross in midfield.

Up front, Holly McNamara started as the central striker, flanked by Hayley Raso and Caitlin Foord. Teagan Micah started in goal.

The opening goal was team effort, both for the USA and for Australia. The American kicked off the game in top gear and sliced through the Australian midfield and defence before teeing up Biyendolo for an easy finish in the six yard box.

Despite, the earliest of setbacks, Australia settled into to contest. Heatley provided an effective midfield screen to protect the back four and although they were vulnerable on the counter attack, Australia looked much more comfortable than they did in game one.

Crosses from Ellie Carpenter and Grant threatened the American defence, and Holly McNamara stayed central to occupy the US centre back, allowing Raso and Foord to occasionally have one-on-one opportunities.

Australia were spared a second goal against them by the offside flag, but were not out of the contest by the half time whistle.

The USA scored their second after the hour mark. Claire Hutton bisected the Australia defence with a sharp decisive pass through the middle and Cooper finished the move after the initial shot by Ally Sentor was scuffed.

Australia gave themselves a lifeline in the 80th minute when Cooney-Cross’s long pass released Raso on the right. The Tottenham winger whipped in an early ball that Michelle Heyman met at full pace and with a nodded finish to make it 2-1.

The second goal would not come, but although this was another loss for Australia, it was a far more encouraging display.

The move of Catley to central defence helped steady the ship, and put the skipper in a more influential position. The benefit of having a left footed player on one side and a right footed centre back on the other were visibly obvious with and without the ball.

Heatley continues to convince as a defensive option both in midfield as as part of a back four. Australia has long needed a specialist ball-winner in the centre of the park to help the defence and allow Cooney-Cross to play with more attacking intent.

The Arsenal midfielder was terrific in a game with little space and her long passing continues to be an asset that Australia can reply on.

There was a lot to like about this performance, but against a USWNT with an average age of 24, it might be of some concern that The USA began their rebuilt less than a year ago and already look  to haver lapped Australia in that department. However, we still do not know if a squad regeneration is part of the plan, and probably won’t until the new permanent coach is found.

Australia continue to bring in new faces. Laini Freier stepped onto the pitch for the first time, as did Alana Murphy. The Victory maestro is one of the real success stories of the development pathways in Australian Football. Murphy has risen from the Victorian NTC and Victory Elite Girls Program to being a train-on with the Young Matildas at the 2022 U20 World Cup. She established herself as a senior A-League midfielder and became a vital part of the Young Matildas as they dominated Asian Cup qualifying before finishing third in the tournament itself.

This debut has been a long time coming, and it will be exciting to see more of Australia’s best youngsters getting opportunities at senior level.

This was an improved performance by The Matildas against a USA squad hungry to prove themselves and with intense competition for places in the lineup.

The game against Colombia will tell us more about where this squad is and where it may be headed.

Teams: USA (4-2-3-1): McGlynn, G Thompson, Sams, Davidson, Dunn, Albert, Hutton, A Thompson, Shaw, Sears, Williams. Substitutes: Mckeown, Sentnor, Coffee, Cooper, Ryan, Fox, Campbell, Nighswonger, Heaps, Yohannes, Sonnett, Macario

Scorers: Williams 1’ Cooper 68’

AUSTRALIA (4-2-1-3): Micah, Carpenter, Kennedy, Catley, Grant, Heatley, Cooney-Cross, Fowler, Raso, Foord, McNamara. Substitutes: Arnold, Heyman, Gorry, Hunt, Prior, Murphy, Torpey, Van Egmond, Freier, Yallop, Galic, Lincoln.

Scorer: Heyman 80’.

Referee: Amairany Garcia (MEX).

Attendance: 23,503.

Riley equaliser earns Ferns a draw in Costa Rica

Costa Rica 1-1 New Zealand

by Jonathon Hagger (23/2/25)

Above: New Zealand captain Annalie Longo (right) battles for possession in Costa Rica last night. Photo: NZ Football.

A goal from Crystal Palace’s Indiah-Paige Riley just before the break ensured that New Zealand took a draw from the first of two encounters with Costa Rica during this international window.

Costa Rica assembled a confident and talented team to play two international friendly fixtures against the higher-ranked team of New Zealand. While a lot of the players may not have seen before outside of Central America, they impressed with their speed and precision.

A refreshed squad of players for the New Zealand Football Ferns was assembled for these two games in Costa Rica, giving a group of up and coming players a chance to test themselves. The end result of a draw was fair to both teams.

It was the Football Ferns who went on the attack in the early stages with Costa Rica patiently absorbing the pressure.  New Zealand looked very confident on the ball and maintained possession well for long periods. That wasn’t to last though as a well-drilled Costa Rican team soon showed what they are capable of.

The first of many breakthrough runs by the hosts occurred in the 11th minute after an uncleared corner landed at their feet. With a completely clear pitch in front of them, Herrera made it all the way to just outside the goal area where she unleashed a shot. The Ferns goalkeeper Victoria Esson made the first of her numerous great saves in the match. In the next three minutes, the shot-stopper was called on again and again as Costa Rica searched for their opening goal.

The first goal of the match was scored by Central American hosts at a time when the match felt like a stalemate. A swift throw-in and speed through the middle of the pitch into open space, found Priscilla Chinchilla in a one-on-one against the goalkeeper. A lovely shot off the outside of the attacker’s boot rolled easily into the bottom right-hand corner of the net. Advantage Costa Rica.

Above: New Zealand midfield talent, Macey Fraser surges through the Costa Rica midfield. Photo: NZ Football.

The Ferns immediately re-engaged their attacking strategy and set about attempting to score. While New Zealand had a good amount of possession they were unable to make their passes stick when needed down inside the Costa Rica half. The Ferns employed a tactic of attacking far more directly, attempting to shoot before the opposition had an opportunity to set themselves.

When they did have time to set themselves, Costa Rica exhibited excellent structure in defence, quickly transitioning into a 4-5-1 formation, reminiscent of the best teams in the world.

Esson demonstrated why she is the Ferns’ number one goalkeeper when one of the Costa Rican midfielders played a beautiful pass directly into the path of her quickly advancing striker moving at pace, just right of the goal in the 28th minute. A well placed knee by Esson deflected the ball away, denying a goal. 

Kelli Brown really threw herself into the action for New Zealand throughout first half, making a strong showing that she has more than earned her first international call-up.

New Zealand levelled matters in the 45th minute. It began from Kitching’s free-kick which ended up hitting the bar, and in the immediate follow-up play, Indiah-Paige Riley, launched a magnificent shot on goal from wide out on the right hand wing that sailed past the goalkeeper.

The second half started in favour of Costa Rica as they repeatedly beat the defensive efforts of the Ferns, creating wide open space for the attacks to launch. Of concern for the visitors was the inability of their defenders to turn and get back into position. Playing with three defenders requires the midfield to be able to turn and go but the speed of the midfield players was unable to compete with against speedy opposition.

At the front of the field, Hand reasserted the reason why she is a go to selection. Her excellent shot in the 53rd minute required the Central American’s goalkeeper, Salera, to act quickly and responsively.

The next major talking point came in the 68th minute as the Ferns defenders needlessly coughed up possession just outside the goal area. A shot on goal by Costa Rica was unable to finished off as the goalkeeper, Esson, once again managed to get her fingers on the ball and guided it away safely.

Above: Indiah-Paige Riley (20) on the break for the Football Ferns last night. Photo: NZ Football.

The substitution change with Hahn making her debut for the Ferns in the 66th minute, added spark the visitors’ midfield. Her ability to both stand strong as well as twist into space, bamboozled the defenders. Far more creative play came through as her ability to slip into open spaces came to the fore, giving more time for Riley and Hand to setup to shoot.

With full time approaching, neither team were happy to settle for a draw and both teams increased the intensity in the closing stages of regular time. True to the rest of the match, while the Ferns dominated field position, Costa Rica’s defensive structure was well able to shut down the New Zealand attacks.

An acknowledgment of the referee Astrid Garmajo of Guatemala, who did an excellent job. The calls made for and against both teams were fair and equal.

Key observations:

Costa Rica are a very good in transition. They are fast and have the ability to control the ball while moving at pace, repeatedly catching the opposition off guard. Their defensive style is very sound.

The Football Ferns looked great at the front, average in the midfield and shaky at the back when countering Costa Rica’s attacks from broken play. All the Ferns wing players were impressive but the team lacked the ability to break down the Costa Rican midfield in the second half, resorting to the old habit of going long and hoping the attacking upfield player can make use of the ball.

Teams: COSTA RICA (3-4-2-1): Solera, Guillen, Bianco, Benavides, Coto, Pinell (80’), Chinchilla, Alvarado, Barrientos (84’), Chinchilla, Salas. Substitutes used: Barahona (84’), Morales (80’), Estrada (84’), Barahona (46’).

Scorer: Chinchilla (20’)

NEW ZEALAND (4-3-3): Esson, Bunge (66’), Taylor, Fraser (79’), Longo, Anton, Riley, Blake (45’), Foster (66’), Kitching, Brown (45’). Substitutes used: Hand (45’), Neville (45’), Hahn (66’), Moore (66’), Elliot (79’).

Scorer: Riley 45’.

Referee: Astrid Garmajo (GUA).

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Young Matildas win again and welcome the region at Parliament House

By Kieran Yap 22/2/25

Above: The Young Matildas and Solomon Island players enjoy festivities at Parliament House. Photo: Tiff Williams for Football Australia

The Young Matildas have beaten The Solomon Islands 12-0 in the second game of the Four Nations Tournament in Canberra.

The Australian Under 20’s rotated heavily for this match after winning the first game 9-0 against Vanuatu, Melbourne City star, Shelby McMahon scored the first two goals, with Peta Trimis and Alex Collins all hit the back of the net to give the Aussies a 4-0 lead at half time.

Avaani Prakash pulled the strings in midfield for the Australians, while India Breier and Talia Younis were menacing down the flanks. Central Coast Mariners attacker Trimis was dangerous early on, whether whipping in crosses or finding space in the crowded penalty area.

The Solomon Islands sat deep, tried to limit the clear chances Australia could create, but the sheer number of opportunities that The Young Matildas forged meant that goals were inevitable, even if good goalkeeping frustrated them early on.

Trimis added her second after half time, after her first and second shots were saved in quick success, she buried the third effort to bring up her brace.

The floodgates were well and truly open. Collins scored her second when she finishes a move started by Josie Allan and Caley Tallon-Henniker.

The Solomon Islands were not without their threats, they relied on the counter attack and in the 52nd minute it nearly paid off after a high interception ended with Jemina David’s shot hitting the post.

Tallon-Henniker made it seven with a thunderous shot from 20 yards, and Trimis brought up her hatrick with an effort of equal quality on her left foot from a slight angle.

Collins had her third just minutes later, nodding on Mary Stanic-Floody’s curling cross from point blank range. Maya Lobo made it 10 with an absolute rocket from the edge of the area with the type of strike few centre backs are capable of.

Sienna Saveska entered the game in the later stages on a mission to add to her two goals from the opening match. After some trademark efforts from distance, she scored Australia’s 11th with a close range finish in the 88th minute.

As they did against Vanuatu, Australia scored with the final kick of the game. It was another wonder strike, this time from Tallon-Henniker after Saveska’s layoff to the edge of the box.

Trimis, Saveska and Vatu reflect

Hatrick hero and U20 World Cup veteran Peta Trimis spoke after the game

“I thought in the first half that we could have been better,” She told the media.

“Although we were getting the goals we spoke about tidying stuff up and I think we really came out in the second half and delivered.

“The crowd were really lively, and it was a really good experience, they pushed us to keep going.”

The Young Matildas have one match left and face Thailand’s U20 side on Tuesday.

“We’re really excited for that match,” said Trimis.

“It’s a really big challenge but we’ve been training well getting gelling well in the last few games, so we’re hoping to come away with a good win.”

Peta Trimis. Photo by Tiff Williams for Football Australia

It was a sentiment echoed by striker Sienna Saveska.

“They’re a strong side and a challenge for us,” said Saveska.

“Hopefully we can get the win over them and just play some good football. They’ll probably really test out and see how we’re going against a stronger side that plays more technical and tactical football. It should be a good game.”

Saveska notched up a goal and an assist in under 10 minutes of game time, but she was quick to praise the atmosphere created by the tournament and team.

“Just getting on the field in the Aus jersey is an amazing thing. We’re all here with a new group of girls and it’s just good to be out there and have fun with each other.

“Getting a goal and assist is just a bonus.”

Trimis also spoke of the closeness of the squad. The majority of the U20 team are A-League Women players, most get regular game time, and the rivalry has been put aside once they arrive in camp.

“On the pitch In the A-League we are very competitive,” said Trimis

“But off the pitch we’re such good friends and get along really well. We also really enjoy coming into camp and playing together.

“I really like coming down to Canberra, I scored my first A-League goal here so it’s a pretty special place to me. All the people sare always so nice and always come out and show up to games so that means a lot to us.”

For Claudia Vatu of the Solomon Islands, the result was hard to swallow, but the overwhelming feeling was pride that they gave it their all.

“W did our best, we gave our all on the field,” said Vatu

“It has been an emotional one for us since we had our family supporters who came out today. But I believe we all worked so hard and gave our best.

“We appreciate each and everyone who came out today, they gave us the confidence to fight until the end. We never gave up and gave our best in the field.

“It was quite emotional to see them come out and cheer for us from the first whistle.

A Parliament House full of V.I.P’s

On the Thursday before the game, all four teams met up for a dinner at Parliament House. Zara Kruger said that it was a valuable and enjoyable night for The Young Matildas as hosts.

“It’s been really nice to get to know some of the girls from the other teams, said Kruger.

“To learn off them through their footballing experiences and off the pitch as well.

“It was really nice to learn some of their language and teach them some of ours as well. The language barriers are hard, but a few of the girls could speak rerally good English so it was good to intertact with them.

“There’s a lot of mingling going on, a few AUS girls on each table, so everyone is just enjoying themselves.”

Thailand Under 20 Captain Madison Casteen said that the youth teams bonded over “Gen Z” things like Tik Tok, university, school and soccer.

“It’s been really welcoming from the Australian side of things,” Casteen told the media.  

“It’s been really cool to see all the teams interacting and mingling together. In the past tournaments we’ve been to it’s never been this combined.

“The different cultures are really cool to see. My friend, she had a potato earlier and she didn’t like it and the Australian’s were like ‘oh my gosh, do you not like potatoes?”

Photo by Tiff Williams for Football Australia

The Four Nations Tournament has been Casteen’s first trip to Australia, and so far it has been a success. She has not seen a kangaroo in the wild yet so there are some ambitions left unfulfilled and she is looking forward to playing Australia even more now that the teams have met each other socially.

“The first thing I thought was the weather was really good, in America its snowing and in Thailand it’s hot,” she said of her first impressions.

Photo By Tiff Williams for Football Australia

Vanuatu’s High Commissioner to Austeralia Samson Vivil Fare said that the event at Parliament House was an important one for the Pacific Island teams.

“I think what I’m observing tonight is an amazing moment,” said Fare.

“Especially when you are bringing all the women and girls from the Pacific to come here and play football.

“it’s an amazing opportunity for them to not only open up and discover different opportunities that may be out there but also to play and showcase their talent in Australia.

“We’re very grateful to the Australian Government and also Football Australia to bring them across.

“It sends a very powerful message to young girls and young boys as well. It’s a message of inspiration.

“You can be good at something, and that particular something you can showcase it elsewhere.”

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Girls in Green left with plenty to ponder after Nations League opener

Above: Ireland celebrate their goal. Photo: FAIreland on X


By Alyce Collett

Ireland have gotten their 2025 Nations League campaign off to a positive start, defeating Turkiye 1-0 thanks to a goal from Kyra Carusa. 

Despite emerging from the match with the full three points, it was not the most impressive performance from the Irish, with the dominant and ruthless Irish side of past League B campaigns nowhere to be found. 

Although the underdog, Turkiye did not make things easy for Ireland from the get go, with plenty of pressure in both attack and defence from the opening passages. In scenes reminiscent of matches in the past against sides like Georgia, it was clear even from the opening minutes that Ireland was really going to have to work hard for any goal they got in this encounter, as Turkiye deployed a low block. 

However, Ireland proved they were willing to be patient to achieve their goal, not afraid to work the ball back to defence and reset on a number of occasions. 

Denise O’Sullivan and Ruesha Littlejohn were particularly hard workers for Ireland, with the latter not afraid to let several shots on goal rip from distance. 

As the half progressed, Ireland continued to pelter the Turkish goal, but just could not get past a well drilled Turkish defencelead by the likes of İlayda Civelek. Ireland’s passing choices were at times questionable, but in full credit to the Turkish defence they did not give the Irish attackers much room to work in. 

Finally Ireland managed to get the breakthrough in stoppage time of the first half when Carusa headed the ball over the Turkish keeper and into the back of the net.

This saw Ireland take a 1-0 lead into half time, but there was plenty for both sides to chat about at the main break. 

Just like in the first half, Ireland had more of the attacking play early in the second half, but was unable to add to their lead after getting caught wide on the right hand side with very little room to work with on a number of occasions. 

Marissa Sheva was someone who really started to become influential on the match in the second half, combining well with the likes of O’Sullivan and Littlejohn to create a lot of energy and potential chances for the home side. 

For all the strong defensive work Turkiye was showing, they could not show similar strength in attack, with the likes of Elif Keskin and Melike Pekel regularly outnumbered every time they went into attack. 

Turkiye continued to frustrate Ireland in the second half, andwent inches away from getting an equaliser in the stoppage time of the second half. 

But in the end the full time scoreline was ultimately the same as the half time one, and although Ireland did emerge victorious, the Girls in Green have plenty to think about and work on ahead of the second match of the window against Slovenia. 

Teams: IRELAND (4-2-1-3): Brosnan, McCabe, Campbell, Patten, Mannion, Littlejohn, O’Sullivan, Sheva, Quinn, Carusa, Payne. Substitutes: Moloney, Whitehouse, Stapeleton, Hayes, Connolly, Barrett, Toland, Filis, Larkin, Murphy, Atkinson.

SCORERS: Kyra Carusa 45+3’

TURKIYE (4-2-3-1): Selda, Civelek, Abrahamsson, Hiz, Sakar, Cal, Topcu, Seker, Tukoglu, Keskin, Pekel. SUBSTITUTUES: Goksu, Karagenc, Karatas, Cin, Karabulut, Hancar, Caglar, Ozturk, Arhan, Tag, Icinozbebek, Nur Yaman. 

Attendance: 8,071

Referee: Réka Molnar

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