The Matildas are currently experiencing great success in the FIFA Women’s World Cup, driven by their never-give-up attitude that has been instilled in the team for a long time. However, their journey to this point hasn’t always been smooth sailing.
A group of Matildas players, including Mackenzie Arnold, Steph Catley, Alanna Kennedy, Katrina Gorry, Emily van Egmond, Caitlin Foord, Sam Kerr, and Hayley Raso, were all born around the same time in 1993 and ’94. They made their debut for the national team as teenagers in the early 2010s.
These players have grown up together, announcing themselves on the international stage at a vulnerable age. Now, after more than 1400 Australian caps between them, they have reached the peak of their careers at the World Cup.
There is a strong bond between Kerr, van Egmond, and Foord, who have known each other since their time in the junior Matildas program. Kerr, reflecting on their growth, said, “It’s been amazing to kind of sit back and watch just how much all of these players that I grew up with have grown into their own. They’re all superstars and they’re amazing.”
In Kerr’s absence due to injury, Foord has partnered with Catley to great success. Foord was named player of the match in the Matildas’ win over Denmark, tormenting the opposing defense with her speed and skill to score the opening goal. Van Egmond has also made a valuable contribution to Australia’s midfield since her return from injury, scoring a goal and providing crucial assists.
As the Matildas’ “golden generation” faces the twilight of their careers, van Egmond emphasized their never-say-die mentality. She said, “We all know exactly what’s at stake, but at the end of the day, we don’t want to put too much pressure on ourselves. It’s just another game of football. The uniqueness and the characters of this team will be thinking about it that way. When the game starts, you’ll see a lot of passion, heart, and the never say die attitude of the Matildas.”
The Matildas’ journey in the World Cup continues, and they are determined to leave a lasting legacy.
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Hasibur Rahaman is a passionate sports journalist. He covers everything from cricket to field hockey, delivering up-to-the-minute updates and in-depth analysis of sporting events, both within India and on the international stage.
