What lies ahead for Isabel Gomez, the hero of the Ninja A-League Grand Final? The Central Coast Mariners standout remains uncertain.
Gomez delivered an outstanding performance, helping the Mariners endure a nail-biting penalty shootout against Melbourne Victory to secure their first Championship on Sunday night.
The 22-year-old was instrumental in the 1-1 draw at AAMI Park, where she not only scored the opening goal but also successfully converted a penalty in the shootout for the Central Coast team, which triumphed just two seasons after their return from a 14-year break.
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This remarkable achievement capped off an extraordinary week for Gomez, who also received a call-up to the CommBank Matildas.
After the match, the big question was whether Gomez would still be part of the Gosford squad for the 2025-26 season.
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“There are many possibilities,” she shared with the media. “I’m still not sure about my next steps.”
It was a truly fairy-tale week for Gomez.
In just seven days, she netted a stunning winner in the 121st minute of the Semi-Final against the unbeaten, two-time reigning champions, Melbourne City, earning her team major accolades. She then earned a CommBank Matildas call-up, scored in the Grand Final, and celebrated the Championship win on Sunday.
Gomez’s chance to make her international debut in November was thwarted by a knee injury, despite her initial call-up.
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After spending 12 weeks on the sidelines, the Mariners midfielder returned to the pitch in February and hasn’t looked back, scoring five goals, including four in her last eight matches, as well as in both the Semi-Final and Final.
This season has been a career highlight for Gomez, who has notched seven goals in the 2024-25 campaign.
“She’s an exceptionally gifted player,” said Central Coast head coach Emily Husband in a post-match interview.
“We know she possesses incredible talent and there’s still plenty more to come. I truly believe she hasn’t even reached her 100% potential yet.
“Reflecting on our season, I can’t help but wonder what we could have accomplished had we had her for the entire duration.
“She’s not only an extraordinary player with remarkable athleticism and technical skills, but she’s also an outstanding person.
“So, all credit goes to her and her family. She has made many people proud, not just tonight but throughout the last two seasons.
“Coaching her has been a dream; I couldn’t ask for a better player.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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