Margraf magic wins it for Aussie U23’s

By Kieran Yap 5/6/24

Above: The Australia U23’s mob Ana Margraf after her 80th minute equaliser.

Australia U23’s 2-2 Poland U20’s

(5-3 on penalties)

Australia’s Under 23 team has ended the Four Nations Tournament on a high with a win on penalties over Poland.

Mel Andreatta’s substitution’s made a huge impact, as Alana Cerne and Ana Margraf both scored for Australia to level the scores after going down 2-0. Margraf then slotted the decisive penalty to give the Aussies their first win of the tour.

Compared to the previous two matches, this was a more open game. Shay Hollman and Cushla Rue started in midfield and attack respectively, while Daniela Galic was rested after two full matches where she attracted close attention from Germany and Sweden.

Australia looked sharp early, the passing game that had been a feature of the first two matches was still evident, but there was an extra  sharpness in attack that felt promising. Kahli Johnson tested the Poland goalkeeper with a trademark effort after cutting in from the left.

Poland’s strength was on the flanks and a cross from the right drifted over Chloe Lincoln but fortunately bounced off the far post. The rebound was skied over in an escape for the Aussies.

Milly Broughton was involved and proactive in attack, creating chances for herself and others. Her confidence on the ball is growing with each appearance in Green and Gold, and although she didn’t score, this was her best performance since joining the Matildas pathway.

Australia conceded first. The high line and aggressive formation was undone by a speculative long kick from Poland’s goalkeeper. The ball bounced over the head of Alexia Apostolakis and with a burst of pace Nadia Krezyman was free to run in behind and finish calmly.

Poland extended their lead in the second half with a header from captain Natalia  Wrobel. The Aussies were 2-0 down, but quickly found a way back into it.

Andreatta made three substitutions. Alana Cerne, Ana Margraf and Isabel Gomez all entered the pitch to almost immediate effect.

Australia earned a free kick wide on the right and Gomez directed the ball back across goal for Cerne to finish on the line. They had pulled one back just five minutes after conceding.

Margraf was making her presence felt playing on the left side of the attack. Her approach was a mix of physical aggression to test the Polish defence and some frankly Bergkamp-like touches to control high balls. Some of her efforts on goal were wayward, but the intent and lack of hesitation was encouraging.

Polly Doran made her way onto the field soon after, and Bryleeh Henry moved into the centre forward role.

Henry’s defensive efforts in pressing the Poland defence added more energy to Australia’s attack but her hold up play helped deliver the equaliser.

After receiving the ball from deep, Henry held off the centre back before flicking a pass to Leah Davidson. The midfielder found a lurking Margraf on the left and the finish matched the buildup for quality. Australia was level and in the ascendancy.

The Aussies continued to attack. Henry was collected brutally by Poland’s goalkeeper as the two raced to a long ball from Chloe Lincoln.

The Aussie goalkeeper had also  pulled off some crucial stops as both teams hunted a win.

Australia almost snatched a winner late but Gomez was inches away from reaching a ball at the back post. Regular time ended 2-2 and the game would be decided by penalty kicks.

Gomez, Hana Lowry and Jessika Nash  slotted the first three, and Poland replied in kind. Hollman scored the fourth, and Australia had the advantage when Poland’s last effort hit the woodwork.

Margraf capped off an impressive game with the winning spot kick and Australia celebrated the win.

Every youth camp is primarily about development over results and although the bare score lines make for tough reading, this was a worthwhile camp for the Under 23’s.

In all three games they moved the ball very well, in most cases they were able to play out of trouble in deep areas and creating chances was not a problem.

On the basis of these games it appears that there is a lack of dominant centre forwards, but Johnson and Broughton look to be fast improvers in that area, Henry was excellent when moved to the role and Lowry was desperately unlucky in the opening game.

Importantly, this team never stopped trying, and found a way to victory when a third consecutive loss looked likely.

There is a gap between Australia’s and Europe’s best at youth level, just as there is between Australia and Japan in Asia, but it is closing fast. Our players can compete, and they are at home at international level.

It is very exciting to think about where these players could be in a few years time.

Lineups:

Australia: Lincoln, Apostolakis, Henry, Tonkin, Rankin, Hollman, Davidson, Hughes, Rue, Johnson, Broughton. Substitutes: A Grove, Aquino, Margraf, Doran, Lowry, Gomez, Galic, L Mckenna, Cerne, Trimis, Nash, Chinnama.

Scorers: Cerne 60’ Margraf 80’

Poland: Radkiewicz, Skupien, Kokosz, Kaczor, Domin, Wrobel, Krezyman, Dudziak, Gietkowska, Gasioreck, Legowski. Substitutes: Symczak, Michlewicz, Kazanowska, Grzybowska, Gec, Sobal, Wlodarczyk, Szewczyk, Jedrzejwska, Kloda, Bednarz.

Scorers: Krezyman 24’ Wrobel 55’

Referee: Isabelle Svensson.

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Lydia Williams, Number One

By Genevieve Henry and Kieran Yap (5/6/24).

With Lydia Williams set to retire from international football, Impetus Football looks back at the impact she had during her career, and the legacy she leaves on and off the field.

When Lydia Williams made her debut for The Matildas it was a different era. Five years on from the Sydney Olympics, crowds for the Australian national team were made up of a handful of die-hard fans, family, and friends. She retires with The Matildas having sold out stadiums around the country, with 103 caps and with the game in a much better place than when she arrived.

Her career has spanned four generations of players, and for much of those 19 years, she has been the number one choice to wear the gloves on matchday. Australia has long been blessed with great goalkeepers and she comfortably sits among the very best in both longevity and ability.

For many adult Matildas fans, Lydia Williams IS their goalkeeper. She took the baton from Melissa Barbieri and had been one of the most constant names on the teamsheet in the most visible and transformative period in Australian football history.

Williams was the starting goalkeeper for two World Cup’s but has been named in four tournaments. She was on the pitch when The Matildas became the first Australian team to win a knockout match at a World Cup, and she was on the field long after the final whistle when they went one further and made the semi final of 2023. She has been a standard bearing player for a long time, many fans do not really remember the game without her, and none of the current side know a locker room without her.

Williams may be a household name, but the longevity and success can be misleading. Although she was a prodigy, for many reasons, this was not an obvious path like it would have been for a young boy.

The result is that she leaves the game as an inspiration to the global football community but also one much more local.

Growing up in Kalgoorlie like Williams, Perth Glory’s Tanika Lala did not have access to the same facilities her future peers did, and looked to Williams for inspiration.

 “There is quite a big difference from playing football regionally (than what) I have experienced from the main city,” Lala told Impetus.  

“Cities provide greater resources and opportunities, such as developmental academies and increased exposure.”

“Growing up in Kalgoorlie, I was not exposed to any academies…it was difficult for me to adjust to the quality of football in Perth. I had to work hard and push myself to catch up technically, physically, and mentally. It goes to show Lydia’s talent as she got national attention at a very young age.”

“That is very impressive coming from the Goldfields.”

Williams did not mean to be a goalkeeper. After spending her childhood playing football alongside Aussie Rules in Kalgoorlie, she and her family moved to Canberra. When she joined her local team, the only position available was in the net. From there, she quickly rose to prominence, making her debut for her country only six years after she first donned the gloves. 

Williams was appearing for the Australian national team before the W-League was even created and was only second Indigenous player at the time of her debut.

From empty stadiums when she was 15 to sellout crowds every time the Matildas play at home, Williams has been there through it all.

During her club career, Williams has played with some of the world’s best teams, such as Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain. Like many Australians for much of the 2010s, Williams played in the NWSL as well as the W-League, starting most games for every club she graced. Her time with Melbourne City from 2016-2020 was perhaps some of her most impressive work, earning accolades such as Goalkeeper of the Year. 

But, as much as one can say about her career, what makes Williams so special is her character. Highly respected and beloved among her peers, Williams’ leadership and compassion set her apart.

Even the timing of her retirement displays the team-first attitude that she is known for. With Australia set to host another international tournament, the 2026 Asian Cup, she could be forgiven for trying to hold on for one last dance. Before injury, her form at Melbourne Victory showed that her powers had not yet faded.

Some tough choices will need to be made after the Paris Olympics, Williams made the call herself, when she could be forgiven for going on another two years to chase a trophy.

It is a brave decision to step away when the game the most popular it has ever been, and when her matchday pay has never been higher. But Williams has never been about herself, goalkeepers cannot be. They put their hand up for the most criticized and solitary role in the sport, ready to shoulder all the blame for a loss and let the strikers take the glory for a win.

As one of the first women to join the PFA, the Australian players’ union, Williams has always advocated for the rights of her fellow players as well as girls inspired by them. She was one of the leaders in the Matildas successful strike in 2015 to earn them equality with the Socceroos. In her press conference on Sunday, Williams shared, “the one thing that I really wanted was that this team really fights for what they believe in, and we’ve really seen that throughout the years – that it’s okay to fight for things.”

She is a huge advocate for Indigenous women in sport and has used her platform to bring attention to the importance of visibility for future generations. A proud Noongar woman, Williams’ has always encouraged and hoped that her career has inspired young Aboriginal girls and boys to embrace their identity and shoot for the stars. 

Williams is leaving The Matildas in a better place than when she first played, and a lot of that is thanks to her bravery, advocacy, and activism. “I want that culture and environment to continue and I think it will. The girls have a fire in them, we’ve brought people in to lead the team in a positive way and really make sure that it is about results and the team and the culture and the Matildas as a whole.”

This is a footballer and a person who put the shirt, The Matildas, and her teammates first for almost two decades. Her legacy on and off field is secure. But the final chapter is not yet written, and Impetus Football wishes her the best in whatever comes next for Australia’s Number One.  

Wheeler & Hunt reflect on the last week with the Matildas

by Ben Gilby (4/6/24)

Above: Clare Wheeler (left) speaking to the media alongside Clare Hunt. Image: Football Australia.

It’s been a rollercoaster ride of a week for the Matildas. Two final chances to impress Tony Gustavsson before he named his squad for the Olympics, and Australian icon Lydia Williams’ final game on home soil. There was a lot for the duo of Clare Wheeler and Clare Hunt to reflect on with the media.

Starting with the fact that the Everton star recorded her second international goal – in perhaps the most unlikeliest way possible with “the shortest player on the pitch heading home” – Wheeler collapsed into fits of giggles reminiscing about the moment.

“It wasn’t planned (scoring with a header), and the celebration definitely wasn’t planned! An opportunity came up, I was the one to take it and I was as shocked as everyone!”

After mixing Olympics qualification with losses in Canada and then a win over Mexico last time out, Wheeler felt that it was hugely important to produce two back-to-back performances where there were clear signs of progress. Overall she felt it was job done.

Above: Clare Wheeler jumping for joy after putting Australia ahead against China yesterday. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

“It helps us with momentum. We wanted to come back and make an impact on the last game in Adelaide, and we definitely did that with our performance and a lot of positives and key learnings to take away.”

Whilst the Matildas had a late, late equaliser from Michelle Heyman to save them in the first match against China in Adelaide, Monday’s win over the same opposition in Sydney came with a much more consistently impressive performance. Hunt outlined the key focus points for the team that led to that showing.

“We were more aggressive, more attacking, we changed our formation slightly to allow for that and then also the personnel we had on the park were more attacking players. We pressed higher up the park as well and that was beneficial for us, particularly in the second half, we won a lot of ball and led to the second goal, so that gave us momentum and opportunity to capitalise on errors from China but also keep them under pressure.”

Both players also shared their stories about how special sharing a final camp on home soil with retiring goalkeeping legend Lydia Williams, with Hunt saying: “It’s always a privilege to share a field with Lyds and share a training environment with her as well.

“She’s a very old head and very experienced. It’s amazing to be in an environment where you can learn from her every single day, and I feel very grateful to have shared the 40-something minutes with her on the field today and all the memories I have of her in camp as well. It’s amazing to have her still part of a team and today was an awesome celebration of all she has achieved in her career, but also Australian women’s football and football across the world.”

Above: Clare Hunt (right) reflecting on the past week in camp with the Matildas. Image: Football Australia.

Wheeler emphasised the deep-lying emotions around the celebration of Williams’ career had not just on the keeper, but on the wider team due to her impact

“In the lead up to it, behind closed doors, preparations and everything was handled and I think she (Williams) knew there was something that was going to commemorate her and her career, and seeing how emotional she was, taken back by it all, I don’t think anything can ever prepare you for that.

“Everyone in the team knows how much Lydia brings – her leadership and her compassion – to honour her in every way – that’s what the team wanted to do because she gives that tenfold back.”

The send-off for Williams individually and the team for the Olympics collectively was watched by another record Matildas crowd of just under 77,000 – a fact that Wheeler is still blown away by, and recognises the importance of the team rewarding their huge fan base with performances and achievements.

“It’s special. It’s so special. It’s always an honour and a privilege to wear the badge and just seeing the amount of people coming to see our games – it’s the new norm, selling out…it’s not lost on us. We’re privileged to have so many people coming out to support us and we want to keep this momentum going and we want to make everyone proud of us at the Olympics.”

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Matildas announce squad for 2024 Paris Olympics

by Kris Goman at Accor Stadium for Impetus (4/6/24)

Above: Steph Catley at the press conference today. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

The formal announcement of the Matildas squad selected for the Paris Olympics was made this morning. The team gathered at Olympic Park in Sydney for the announcement accompanied by the Olympic Chef de Mission, Anna Mears.

There were no real surprises in the selection with the core team of regular starters Steph Catley (Captain), Emily van Egmond (Vice Captain), Ellie Carpenter (Vice Captain), Caitlin Foord, Haley Raso, Clare Polkinghorne, Alana Kennedy, Mackenzie Arnold, Mary Fowler, Tameka Yallop and Clare Hunt picked as expected.

The remaining positions up for grabs went to Cortnee Vine, Clare Wheeler, Kaitlyn Torpey, Michelle Heyman, Kyra Cooney-Cross, Tegan Micah and possibly surprisingly, given her current injury, Katrina Gorry, who was not able to attend today.

Fan favourite Charlotte Grant did not make the full squad but will be a travelling replacement along with Lydia Williams, Courtney Nevin and Sharn Freier.

Jada Whyman and Winonah Heatley who have been in the squad recently were not selected. Other notable absences include Emily Gielnik, Chloe Logarzo, Aivi Luik and Kyah Simon.

The Matildas Olympic squad (minus Katrina Gorry) at the announcement today. Photo: Kris Goman

Manager Tony Gustavsson explained his rationale behind the selection. “We have limitations on the numbers of players available and a very tight schedule with games every third day. One of the considerations is that you need coverage in every position. I need three centre-backs, three outside-backs, three midfielders, three wide players and three 9 and 10s and one multifunctional player. So that comes into play, but you also need players that can play in multiple positions, and you’ve seen over the last two games some of these players playing three and four different positions in two games. We need some flexibility in such short turnaround at the Olympics.”

Above: Jubilant Matildas in anticipation of their Olympic adventure. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.


Captain Steph Catley described the desire to bring home a medal at this Olympics. “We’ve been to two major tournaments now where we’ve finished fourth and there’s definitely something within us that wants something tangible to take out of this whole experience, whether it’s the youngest player on the team to the oldest player who’s been on the team for over ten years, we all want the same thing. We’re very excited and very ready to get to Paris now.” Catley further explained, “You never take an Olympics for granted. It’s the most prestigious sporting event in the world and something I’m very honoured to be a part of.” “We’re coming up against a powerhouse straight away in the group and that’s the way the Olympics go. It’s a really difficult tournament. We will go out and do our absolute best and make the country proud regardless.”

When asked about Charli Grant’s omission from the squad, Catley said, “I think that’s the hard thing with the Olympic squad – it’s so small – and one of the things that’s most important is having flexibility and I think that sometimes that means you’re not going to have double ups in different positions.

“You’re going to have more players that can play different roles. If you get an injury in one area you might need someone that can play multiple roles and I think that’s where it may have tipped Charli out of favour. I think that’s the space the team is in and it’s so competitive and there’s so many players that have come in and really proven themselves and been hungry for a spot.

“It’s a really, really hard thing and obviously we’ve had the announcement over the last couple of days in camp and there’s been lots of emotions and lots of people that are obviously heartbroken but football’s also a funny game and she steps into the role as an alternate and you never know what’s going to happen, touch wood there’s no injuries or nothing like that, but anything can happen and she just needs to be ready to be called in as well as the other three.”

Family and friends were invited to the announcement and there was plenty of excitement in the room and a lot of proud parents as the tickets were presented.

Above: (Front row): Clare Polkinghorne, Emily van Egmond, Tegan Micah, Hayley Raso and Steph Catley with their families and Olympic tickets. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.


Excitement was palpable for debutante Cortnee Vine who said that, “The Olympics have been a dream of mine from way back – when I was doing athletics.” She said she’s, “Done everything I can and put my best foot forward for Tony and it’s paid off luckily.”

When describing when she found out, she was very nervous and very stressed going into the meeting. “Tony tries to get to the point pretty quick but also make you second guess as well which is stressful. I’ve spoken to him before that the Olympics is the one thing that I’ve always wanted to be a part of, probably more than the World Cup. Back when I was younger, that was my thing. I’ve watched Cathy Freeman, I’ve watched the 2000 Olympics here and I’ve always thought that’s something I want to do.” “I shed a tear and was very emotional but I slept like a baby that night.”

Above: (Left to right): Cortnee Vine, Kaitlyn Torpey, Clare Hunt, and Clare Wheeler will be attending their first Olympics. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.


The team will be taking a short break with some returning to their leagues before assembling in Spain for the final camp prior to the Olympics. Gustavsson mentioned they are looking to arrange at least one more friendly before the Olympics.

AUSTRALIA SQUAD FOR THE 2024 PARIS OLYMPICS:

NamePositionAgeOlympic Games
Mackenzie ArnoldGoalkeeper303rd (2016, 2020)
Ellie Carpenter (vc)Defender243rd (2016, 2020)
Steph Catley (c)Defender303rd (2016, 2020)
Kyra Cooney-CrossMidfielder222nd (2020)
Caitlin FoordMidfielder / Forward293rd (2016, 2020)
Mary FowlerMidfielder / Forward212nd (2020)
Katrina GorryMidfielder312nd (2016)
Michelle HeymanForward35*2nd (2016)
Clare HuntDefender25Debut
Alanna KennedyDefender293rd (2016, 2020)
Teagan MicahGoalkeeper262nd (2020)
Clare PolkinghorneDefender353rd (2016, 2020)
Hayley RasoMidfielder / Forward292nd (2020)
Kaitlyn TorpeyDefender24Debut
Emily van Egmond (vc)Midfielder / Forward30*3rd (2016, 2020)
Cortnee VineMidfielder26Debut
Clare WheelerMidfielder26Debut
Tameka YallopMidfielder32*3rd (2016, 2020)

* = will have birthday between now and the Olympics starting.

Additional players going along to cover for injuries only:

Sharn Freier, Charlotte Grant, Courtney Nevin, and Lydia Williams have been named as the travelling reserves who can be selected as a replacement athlete onto the Australian Olympic Team in case of injury or other withdrawal of one of the selected 18 athletes.

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Australia v China: Exclusive Photo Gallery

From Kris Goman at Accor Stadium for Impetus (3/6/24)

Above: Clare Wheeler celebrates after putting Australia ahead against China today. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

Australia 2-0 China

The Matildas’ farewell match to goalkeeping legend Lydia Williams ended in victory as second-half goals from Clare Wheeler and Hayley Raso sealed a 2-0 win over China in front of over 76,000 fans in Sydney.

Kris Goman captured the action for Impetus from pitchside at Sydney’s Olympic Stadium. These images of the goals and the farewell to Williams are below with more action following tomorrow.

Teams: AUSTRALIA (4-4-2): Williams, Carpenter, Kennedy, Hunt, Catley, Raso, van Egmond, Cooney-Cross, Fowler, Heyman, Yallop. Substitutes used: Polkinghorne, Vine, Wheeler, Torpey, Arnold (GK), Grant.

Scorers: Wheeler 48′, Raso 56′.

CHINA (4-4-2): H Xu, Q. Chen, J. Dou, H. Wu, M. Li, Y.Liu, M. Shen, L. Yang, S. Wang, C. Wu, L. Zhang. Substitutes: W. Yanwen, C. Yuan, S. Menglu, Z. Rui, G. Chen, J. Tang.

Attendance: 76,798.

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Markovski brace seals Bulleen win

By Joe Rosedon 3/5/24

Calder United 0-3 Bulleen Lions

Bulleen Lions complete comfortable 3-0 victory over the struggling Calder United. A double from Maja Markovski and an own goal from Maia Haysen kept up Bulleen’s excellent form. 

From the opening stages, Bulleen controlled the ball, but it was the home side who threatened first. Akeisha Sandhu found space on the left-hand side and delivered a teasing ball into the box but was inches away from finding Olivia Anderson at the back post.

Yet Bulleen’s dominance paid off shortly after and yet again it was Markovski who made the difference with a moment of individual brilliance. The forward picked up the ball, dribbled past two and launched an audacious effort that flew past Shanel Camilleri and into the top corner to give the visiting side the lead. 

Markoski was involved again, this time laying the ball off for teammate Alana Burn on the edge of the box, but her effort was parried away by Camilleri and the Calder defence were able to clear. She almost got her second of the game, AlanaCortellino finding Markoski in the six-yard box, but Camilleri bravely closed her down to prevent Bulleen doubling their lead.

The beginning of the second half followed a similar pattern to the first, with Bulleen in comfortable control of position but Calder having the first chance. This time it was Judy Connolly, who won the ball back high up the pitch, but her effort was comfortable for Bulleen goalkeeper Erin Hudson. 

Rosie Rodger found space in the Calder box for Bulleen but could not adjust her feet in time to get her shot away and the ball was subsequently smothered by Camilleri. The away side were edging closer to the all-important second goal.

After this chance, they would not have to wait long. Markovski found Nia Mohd Salleh who played the ball across the penalty area for Heysen to inadvertently turn the ball in her own net to create a two-goal cushion for the league leaders.

It was fitting that Markovski, who opened the scoring, was the one to conclude the scoring.  Rodger touched the ball onto Markovski who drove into the box past Calder defenders and fired across Camilleri to seal the victory for Bulleen.

This was Bulleen’s tenth consecutive win. After Preston Lions 3-2 defeat to Heidelberg United FC, Bulleen now have an eight-point lead at the top of the NPLW table. 

Their next game is away to Essendon Royals.

Caulder’s poor form continues, this their eight defeat of the season so far. Their next game is at home to FV Emerging.

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Emotions high as Matildas and China prepare for challenges ahead

by Ben Gilby (2/6/24)

Above: Lydia Williams and Tony Gustavsson speaking to the media today in Sydney. Image: Football Australia.

Australia head coach Tony Gustavsson emphasised both the level of emotions around the Matildas squad ahead of tomorrow’s game with China and the steely determination to “show who they really are.”

As well as being Australia’s final game on home soil before the Paris Olympics, a sell out crowd of approaching 80,000 will be at Acor Stadium to acclaim Matildas icon Lydia Williams who will make her last appearance for the national team in Australia.

“There are a lot of emotions – emotions about selections (for the Olympics), but also emotions about honouring a legend of the game, and you all know what this team is about, it’s about the players and what they achieved and what they have done,” Gustavsson said.

“We’ve talked in the locker room about my first games and then Lydia talks about her first games and you realise ‘Wow! what a journey it has been!’, and to be a small part of that amazing journey is going to be very emotional tomorrow.”

Whilst there is plenty of attention on sending Williams and the team off on a high, the Australia head coach is clear that he is demanding a vast improvement from his players on Friday’s performance against China.

Above: Tony Gustavsson speaking to the media today in Sydney. Image: Football Australia.

“All of us in the team, including the players, were disappointed about the performance, but we were happy about that last second goal that says a lot about the attitude and identity of this team with the Never Say Die attitude…we want to be much more energised, more powerful, more attack-minded than we were in the last game, and…there’s a team that want to step out there and show who they really are.”

He also revealed that Caitlin Foord’s availability for the game is still in question: “We’ll see in training today, we will put out a statement so that everyone knows.”

Gustavsson ended the media conference with an insight into how he strives to ensure both the Matildas players and fans are at the heart of everything he does – whether it be communicating clearly about selection plans or the scheduling of the squad announcement for the Olympics.

“You want to make sure that this team is connected to the fans – the way I’ve tried to do it is when I sit here in front of you I try to explain what we are doing as much as possible, so the fans understand why we are doing it as I know the fans want nothing more than for this team to perform at the Olympics.

“If they understand part of performing at the Olympics is looking at the selection of players…there will also be different opinions in this room and among the fans that everyone has their favourite player and ‘why isn’t she playing?’ that’s part of coaching, and I’m happy to take criticism for that. The important thing is I talk to the players, talk to the fans…explain why we are doing what we are doing.”

“I pushed very hard to get the (Olympic squad) nomination on home soil…because it was very important for me that the players could be with families and friends and also for Australia to connect to the Aussie spirit and the Matildas. I could have waited another month (to announce the squad) if you look at the deadline, but I really wanted to make sure we did it on home soil because that will create so much energy for us to perform in Paris as well.”

Above: Lydia Williams at her final media conference on home soil today. Image: Football Australia.

Matildas goalkeeper Lydia Williams reflected on her footballing journey and how the game has evolved during her career ahead of her farewell appearance on home soil tomorrow against China at a sold-out Accor Stadium in Sydney.

“Honoured, definitely. Probably the most exciting thing is that I get to share my final game with the team at home with the players, the coaching staff, and the team. It’s a closing of the circle, you don’t really get much time as an athlete to have hindsight, you have to move on from tournament to tournament, from club season to club season…over the last few months I’ve been able to have those recollections.”

Williams highlighted the change in coaching she has experienced over the past 20 years, with high praise for the techniques used by her final Matildas boss Tony Gustavsson.

“I guess it’s the shift in technical ability, the understanding of the game. When we first started, a lot of it was coaches trying to correct technique…the basic rules, and understanding of the game. Throughout that period, over 20 years of playing, you see the standards of coaching coming in. Tony (Gustavsson) makes it really self-reliant environment – it’s your duty to do the job and put you in the best shape, and the most important thing is your performance on the pitch.

“You want to know that you’ve done the work and you get the reward by playing and getting selected for teams and that’s really been the kind of way it’s been evolving in a real short time – five years – and bringing in these really dynamic coaches who are leading that way and really creating that culture shift in the team.”

“We’re all the same as when we first started, no-one’s really changed. We’ve known each other since we were 16 and we were those kids trying to look up to be a role model, and for some of us, we’ve become a role model, but throughout it all we’ve remained who we are and what we believe in.”

Lydia Williams on The Matildas.

Then there is the identity of the Matildas. Williams emphasises the oft-repeated We Are Matildas mantra – players, coaches, families, and fans all part of one group all pulling in the same direction.

“The one thing that I really wanted was that this team really fights for what they believe in, and we’ve really seen that throughout the years – that it’s OK to fight for things…I want that culture and environment to continue and I think it will. The girls have a fire in them, we’ve brought people in to lead the team in a positive way and really make sure that it is about results and the team and the culture and the Matildas as a whole. It’s not just one player, it’s not just one staff member, it’s not just one organisation – it’s everything. The Matildas are the fans, the family, and everyone in between.”

China: Milicic and Wang Yenwen on the journey ahead for restoring the nation to former glories

Above: China’s team interpreter, forward Wang Yanwen (centre), and head coach Ante Milicic (right) at today’s media conference in Sydney. Image: Football Australia.

China’s former Matildas head coach Ante Milicic provided an insight into his new role with the former World Cup and Olympic runners-up, his focus on the rebuilding role ahead, and his thoughts on the retirement of Australian goalkeeper Lydia Williams – a player he knows well.

Milicic has had a tough baptism this international window in his new role, he had to select this squad based on videos on computer due to the short period in between his appointment and the games in Adelaide and Sydney. He provided an insight into the reality of what it actually entailed.

“During the interview process, I had to watch a fair bit of the national team games, so I had a bit of an understanding of the national team. I had to look a bit deeper and watch the girls in the club competitions – in the Chinese Super League.

“That was the challenge when you are relying on video footage, you are watching the games, but looking at the number of match minutes and also the intensity to get an understanding of the way of playing and how in a short space of time we could bring that to the national team. With all our girls playing overseas, we’re not really getting the minutes they need…the girls in Celtic play a little bit more, but in the UK, the girls just aren’t getting the minutes, and in Spain and France, and that’s been the biggest challenge.”

There were a huge number of positives for Milicic to take from Friday’s first game in charge, but the performance and outcome do not distract him from the reality of the situation he and his team are in.

“We’ve played our first game together against a very difficult opponent, so there is a lot of analysis, there are a lot of things we need to work on. The girls tried to execute what we spoke about and what we worked on, now it’s a process of recovery and seeing who is in the physical condition to back up for what will be another strong game tomorrow night…we have one player who was not available for Friday, we have to see how she is for tomorrow.

“That’s things that we’ve got to deal with. Unfortunately for us as a squad, time is the enemy, so we haven’t had enough time to work on…when they took their pause in the first half they looked to adjust a few things, and that second half again they adjusted again. We haven’t been able to provide our players with feedback on how to adjust to the opposition when they do make some tactical changes.”

Above: China head coach Ante Milicic speaking to the media in Sydney today. Image: Football Australia.

Rebuilding any team is a challenge, but one with such a successful past as China is one with even more difficulties. The women’s game is a very different beast now to the one that China were so strong in throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. So what are Milicic’s immediate aims in his new role?

“I just want to build a clear identity for the team. When the people of China watch their national team play, they see a clear style of football, they know what to expect…you just want to build some consistency around the side, so when you get to a major tournament, you know what to expect. I’m trying to look at it as a two-year block – what type of players I can bring in for the next two years…and the girls have been very receptive.”

Milicic was asked his thoughts on the development of the Matildas since he left the role as head coach in 2020. He is blown away by their achievements and proud of what so many of the players he is familiar with have done.

“They are a special group – what they have done for the game, not just in Australia but the world…they deserve everything that has come their way. It was nice to see them again as when I did depart the role (of Matildas head coach) I didn’t have that contact with them, so I really appreciated that.”

One of those players that Milicic knows well is Lydia Williams. China’s head coach made clear he is in awe of her longevity at the highest level and achievements across her career with the Matildas that began in 2005.

“When I got the news (about her retirement), we exchanged text messages. Lydia has been a fantastic professional and should be very proud what she has achieved and what she has done for the game…hopefully she is not lost to football because she has a lot of experience on and off the field. I’m proud that I got to spend a little bit of time with her on that journey.”

Also speaking at China’s media conference was striker Wang Yanwen who reflected on what she believes has to be done to restore her nation’s standing at the top table of women’s football.

“If we want to bring back our prime winning in winning football in the position of the world, with our domestic game the first thing we need to improve is the pace of the game and stronger contact with physical condition.”

She also outlined her thoughts on the first game between the two nations on Friday, saying, through an interpreter: “We were heading (winning) the game at the beginning and creating so many chances, but unfortunately they draw the game with us. A lot has been talked, and there are improvements to be made before the next game.”

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Australia luckless against ruthless Germany

Australia Under 23’s 0-3 Germany U20’s.

By Kieran Yap 3/6/24

Australia lost their second game of the four nations tournament in much the same fashion as the first game to Sweden.

An unlucky own goal, a turnover deep in defence and then an excellent finish from long range decided the result, while the ball seemed pre-determined not to go in at the other end.

Australia started brightly with Kahli Johnson’s effort forcing a strong save from the German goalkeeper. The Western United striker almost finished an excellent end-to-end move that used a combination of players and passes to unlock the German defence. The eventual effort was forced away for a corner, but the German defence dealt with it easily.

In the 30th minute, misfortune struck. A low cross from the left spun off Alexia Apostolakis’ foot, up into the air and across the goal line. It was an own goal that defied physics, both in the distance that the ball travelled that the height that it reached. It was a desperately unlicky way to concede and could likely never be replicated.

Daniela Galic came closest to levelling the scores before half time. Australia forced a turnover in their penalty area and Galic feigned a shot, then cut into space to create the opening. Her effort was saved.

Australia continued to attack, but a succession of corners did not yield a result. Like the Swedes in the opening match, Germany were simply more clinical when  the chances presented themselves.

For much of the game, Australia’s high risk passing game was both entertaining, and effective, even if it did provide for some nail biting moments. Chloe Lincoln’s footwork is a marvel to watch, but with very few A-League clubs playing with this tactic it is fraught with danger. Just after half time, The German’s latched onto a wayward pass from Lincoln and Sophie Natchigall made it 2-0.

Dilara Acikgöz scored the third goal in the 60th minute with a thunderous effort from the edge of the box. That was one unstoppable.

Australia created enough chances to warrant a better result than 3-0, but could not finish what they created. They were not outclassed around the pitch though, and a little less hesitancy in the final third will hopefully see them open their account in the next game against Poland.

Australia’s Under 23’s play Poland at the much more friendly time on 9pm on Tuesday night.

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Lionesses Suffer Setback At The Hands Of France

Above. Photo: EquipeDeFranceF

by Joe Rosedon (1/6/24)

Sarina Weigman, in her 50th game as head coach of England, was able to pair Leah Williamson with Milly Bright at centre-back for the first time since the Lionesses 6-1 victory over Belgium in February 2023. Jess Carter was chosen at left-back over Alex Greenwood, with a view to counter the dynamism of Lyon’s Kadidiatou Diani. The injured Lauren James was replaced by Beth Mead.

France manager Herve Renard, who served a touchline ban for this game replaced, injured all-time top goal scorer Eugéine Le Sommer with Marie-Antoinette Katoto. Other changes from France’s last match against Sweden included Élisa de Almedia and Sakina Karchaoui coming in for Griedge Mbock Bathy Nka and Grace Geyoro. Karchaoui’s role was of particular interest, picked as a midfielder instead of her usual position of left back.

England’s opening attacks were centred on the left-hand side of the pitch. Combination play between Carter and Lauren Hemp forced Diani deeper to help De Almedia with defensive duties.

This proved to be successful as England scored the opening goal through play down this flank. Hemp was given plenty of time and space to deliver the ball from the left, eventually reaching Mead on the opposite wing to score.

Alessia Russo also drifted into the left-hand channel. The Arsenal forward isolated Wendie Renard held up the ball and allowed Hemp and Ella Toone to be brought into play.

In the centre of the pitch, Kenza Dali was tasked with the critical role of keeping England’s metronome Kiera Walsh quiet, a job she succeeded at during the first half. The aforementioned Karchaoui was also successful in her midfield role, intercepting the ball on numerous occasions when England looked to threaten from an attacking point of view, France attempted to press England and hit them on the counterattack, but this approach was ineffective in causing the home side problems defensively. Diani stuck to the right-hand side but as the half drew on, she made runs centrally when France were in promising attacking positions.

Bearing that in mind, it made sense that France found their equalizer from a corner and a moment of individual brilliance. De Almedia was able to wriggle away from her markers at the end of the box and volley home superbly. France did look brighter towards the end of the first half after scoring, having much more control of possession. Interestingly France, whose biggest assets are their wide players, were subdued.

From the beginning of the second half, France looked to rectify this and made more of a
concerted effort to focus their attacks on the flanks. Delphine Cascarino was almost a beneficiary of this new focus, firing just wide.

However, it was poor defending from a set piece that allowed the visiting side to take the lead.

England again could not deal with a French corner; this time it was Katoto on hand to capitalize with another excellent finish.

Following this goal, Cascarino was replaced by Amandine Henry. This substitution signified that France were content with taking a more defensive approach for the remainder of the game, as it added an extra body in midfield to increase stability and security. France was able to control the game with relative ease from this point, keeping England at arm’s length. In particular, England’s midfield were stifled by a controlled approach.

In response, England withdrew Georgia Stanway for Fran Kirby and Mead for Chole Kelly, trying to find an attacking spark which they severely lacked in the second half. Bronze did find space but was unable to pick out Russo at the back post. De Almedia also did a much better job of containing Hemp in the second half than in the first.

This was another worrying performance from England, who since the World Cup, have been unable to match their lofty standards. England can still qualify from their group, but a second-place finish seems the most likely outcome For France, a win away to the reigning European Champions and World Cup finalists, is a tremendous result. This puts them in an excellent position to top the qualifying group.

England: Earps, Bronze, Williamson, Bright, Carter, Stanway, Walsh, Toone, Mead, Hemp, Russo

Goals: Mead (30)

France: Peyraud-Magin, De Almedia, Lakrar, Renard, Bacha, Toletti, Karchaoui, Dali, Katoto, D.Cascarino

Goals: De Almeida( 43), Katoto (68)

Referee: Marta Huerta De Anza