Acting captain Steph Catley has stated that the Australian side, fresh from their World Cup semi-final appearance, will “fight back” after a concerning dip in form, while eagerly awaiting the return of star striker Sam Kerr.
The Matildas enchanted the entire nation during their impressive run to the semi-finals of the 2023 World Cup, earning a slew of new supporters and turning many players into household names.
However, after a disappointing performance at the Paris Olympics last year, coach Tony Gustavsson parted ways with the team, leaving them without a permanent head coach or a defined sense of direction.
The long-term loss of regular captain Sam Kerr due to an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury has only exacerbated their challenges.
This poor run culminated in a 2-1 defeat against Colombia at the SheBelieves Cup in San Diego this week, following a similar loss to the United States and a disheartening 4-0 defeat to Japan.
As a result, Australia has slipped to 15th in the world rankings, but Arsenal’s Steph Catley insisted they are “focused on the bigger picture“.
“It was clearly not a good tournament for us, nor were the results we were after,” she commented.
“National teams often go through phases where they peak at different times, and right now it’s clear we are not at our peak. There’s plenty for us to improve upon and a lot of work ahead.“
Catley mentioned that they are aiming towards the Asian Cup on home soil in March next year, hoping that strong public support will help restore the form that took them to new heights at the World Cup.
“It’s a huge tournament to host at home, especially following the success and significance of the World Cup for our country,” she said.
“It’s crucial for us to perform well, and we’re determined to excel in that tournament.
“We will bounce back, we’ll fight back, and we’ll be prepared for our next challenge, which is the next step towards the Asian Cup.
The Matildas are currently led by interim coach Tom Sermanni following Gustavsson’s departure, but the 70-year-old Scot has hinted that he is not looking to take the role full-time.
Football Australia CEO James Johnson noted this week that they are “waiting for the right coach”, suggesting their ideal candidate is currently under contract elsewhere.
“Once that coach is available, we will ensure the appointment is made,” he stated.
The Matildas are set to play two friendly matches against South Korea at home in April, with Sermanni confirming he will remain in charge.
These fixtures could potentially see the return of Chelsea’s Kerr, who was acquitted this month of racially aggravated abuse of a police officer following a high-profile trial in London.
Whether she will be reinstated as captain, given her recent off-field troubles, poses another significant decision for Australia’s football authorities.
Former Socceroos star-turned-analyst Robbie Slater highlighted in a column for The Australian newspaper that the return of Australia’s all-time leading goalscorer is eagerly awaited.
“It’s clear that the Matildas are missing Sam Kerr. In the match against Colombia, the Matildas had nine attempts at goal but managed only one on target,” remarked the former West Ham and Southampton midfielder.
“Caitlin Foord, Hayley Raso, Mary Fowler – they are all talented scorers, but none can replicate what Kerr brings to the team.
“The sooner we can have her back in the squad, the better – even having Kerr starting on the bench would significantly boost the team’s morale.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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