Matildas Draw Against Switzerland in Post-Olympics Friendly
The Australian women's national football team, the Matildas, kicked off their post-Olympic campaign with a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Switzerland in a friendly match held at the Stade de Genève on Tuesday, September 6th.
This match served as a crucial test for the Matildas, allowing them to assess their current strengths and areas for improvement after their impressive fourth-place finish at the Tokyo Olympics.
A Tight First Half
The first half saw both sides exchanging blows, with Switzerland's Ana-Maria CrnogorΔeviΔ opening the scoring in the 14th minute. However, the Matildas responded quickly, with a superb goal from Mary Fowler in the 38th minute bringing the score to 1-1 at half-time.
Second Half Action and a Late Equalizer
The second half saw the Swiss take the lead again through a penalty conversion by Ramona Bachmann in the 62nd minute. But the resilient Matildas fought back and found the equalizer through a well-placed header from Sam Kerr in the 84th minute, ensuring a share of the spoils in a thrilling encounter.
Key Takeaways for the Matildas
Despite the draw, the match offered valuable insights for the Matildas:
- Positive Offensive Performances: The team demonstrated impressive attacking prowess, with Fowler and Kerr displaying their clinical finishing abilities.
- Defensive Concerns: The Matildas' defensive solidity was tested, particularly in the first half, highlighting the need for improvements in this area.
- Emerging Talent: Fowler's goal and performance showcased the exciting potential of the young Australian talent pool.
Looking Ahead
The draw against Switzerland provided a solid platform for the Matildas as they prepare for the upcoming FIFA Women's World Cup Qualifiers. The team will continue their preparations with further friendlies and training camps, aiming to refine their tactics and build momentum heading into the crucial qualification matches.
The Matildas have shown that they are a force to be reckoned with on the international stage, and this draw against Switzerland is just the start of their journey towards achieving their ultimate goal - qualification for the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup.