True to their catchphrase, the “Never Say Die” Matildas were not going to die wondering. In the biggest match in their 45-year history, with the weight of a nation on their shoulders, Australia were in vintage form in Melbourne on Monday night. Showing the composure and attacking flair that had deserted them in their first two matches, the Matildas secured a berth in the last 16 with a four-goal thrashing of Olympic champions Canada.
It was a must-win clash – and the Matildas duly triumphed. Victory was vindication for coach Tony Gustavsson, who had faced increasing criticism after his side narrowly beat Ireland to open the tournament and then lost to Nigeria four days ago.
About Author
More Stories
Courtney-Bryant wins 3,000m silver at European Indoor after Koster ‘carnage’
‘I don’t want to say that’: Arteta refuses to give up on title despite United draw
Cameron Norrie crashes to straight-sets defeat at Indian Wells by Tommy Paul