Gustavsson: Kerr’s return a bonus for Matildas

Wed, 09 Aug, 2023

Gustavsson: Kerr’s return a bonus for Matildas

Sydney: Sam Kerr made a 15-minute cameo in Australia’s FIFA Women's World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 last-16 win against Denmark on Monday with head coach Tony Gustavsson saying the forward’s return is a massive boost to their title hopes.

Kerr had been sidelined since suffering a calf injury on the eve of the tournament and Monday’s appearance as a substitute for goalscorer Haley Raso in the 2-0 triumph against the Danes provided the Matildas further assurance that they are indeed World Cup contenders.

Fowler brilliance sparks Matildas

Tue, 08 Aug, 2023

Fowler brilliance sparks Matildas

Sydney: Despite being the youngest Matilda on the roster, Mary Fowler captured complete attention with her outstanding performance in Australia's 2-0 victory over Denmark in their FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 last-16 match at Stadium Australia on Monday.

Fowler displayed her immense talent when her perfectly-timed through ball sent Caitlin Foord into open space, with the midfielder calmly finishing past Danish goalkeeper Lene Christensen for the opening goal.

That kick-started Australia's dominant display, with Hayley Raso’s effort then securing their spot in the quarter-finals.

Gustavsson hails Australia's composure, focus in win over Denmark

Tue, 08 Aug, 2023

Gustavsson hails Australia's composure, focus in win over Denmark

Sydney: Tony Gustavsson applauded his players for maintaining their composure and remaining focused after Australia advanced to the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 quarter-finals with a 2-0 defeat of Denmark on Monday. 

The 75,784 in attendance at Stadium Australia witnessed a dominant display from the Matildas, who went in front through Caitlin Foord just before the hour mark with Hayley Raso then sealing the victory with 20 minutes to go.

Sweden keeper Musovic 'in the zone' in Japan message

Mon, 07 Aug, 2023

Sweden keeper Musovic 'in the zone' in Japan message

Melbourne: Sweden goalkeeper Zecira Musovic says she is "in the zone" at the FIFA Women's World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 after a succession of crucial saves denied the United States in an ominous sign for quarter-final opponents Japan.

The Chelsea stopper exploded on the global stage with her breathtaking performance in their penalty shootout win against the defending champions in Melbourne on Sunday.
 
The 27-year-old produced 11 saves, many world-class, to keep the Americans at bay over 120 minutes of action.

Penalty practice makes perfect for England, says Kelly

Mon, 07 Aug, 2023

Penalty practice makes perfect for England, says Kelly

Brisbane: England's Chloe Kelly said plenty of penalty practice had paid off after scoring the winning spot-kick to send the Lionesses into the FIFA Women's World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 quarter-finals after a nervy 0-0 draw against Nigeria.

The European champions had to survive extra-time a player down after Lauren James was sent off towards the end of 90 minutes for violent conduct.
 
Georgia Stanway then fired England's first penalty wide, but Bethany England, Rachel Daly, Alex Greenwood and Kelly found the net to prevail 4-2 in the shootout and prevent a huge upset in Brisbane.

Nigeria are inspiration for women's football in Africa, says coach

Tue, 08 Aug, 2023

Nigeria are inspiration for women's football in Africa, says coach

Brisbane: Nigeria's impressive run at the FIFA Women's World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 may have come to an end on Monday, but head coach Randy Waldrum said their performances had made the football world sit up and take notice.

The Nigerians bowed out when they went down 4-2 on penalties to football heavyweights England when their last-16 encounter finished goalless at the end of extra time.

Gomis joins Kawasaki Frontale

Tue, 08 Aug, 2023

Gomis joins Kawasaki Frontale

Hong Kong: Two-time AFC Champions League™-winning striker Bafetimbi Gomis has signed for Kawasaki Frontale, the J.League club announced on Tuesday.

Former France international Gomis, who won the continental title with Al Hilal SFC in 2019 and 2021, has signed for the four-time Japanese champions until the end of the current season and will be available to play in the upcoming edition of the AFC Champions League.
 
The 38-year-old makes the move to Kawasaki after a season-long stint in Turkey with Galatasaray, who he joined after leaving Al Hilal last year.

Preliminary Round 1: Machhindra FC (NEP) 3-2 Paro FC (BHU)

Tue, 08 Aug, 2023

Preliminary Round 1: Machhindra FC (NEP) 3-2 Paro FC (BHU)

Kathmandu: Nepal’s Machhindra FC fought back from a goal down to edge Paro FC of Bhutan 3-2 in their AFC Cup Preliminary Round 1 match at the Dashrath Stadium on Tuesday.

Paro took an early lead before a first-half blitz gave Machhindra a 3-1 advantage heading into the break with the visitors reducing the deficit late in the game.

Machhindra will face India’s Mohun Bagan Super Giants in the Preliminary Round 2 on August 16.