Olympics Soccer News: Matildas fresh faces off the bench saved the day with the 6-5 win v Zambia this morning in Nice

by Sports Benches

Looking at the half-time score, yes, the Matildas or Tillies have scored some goals which wasn’t bad to see for a start. But they are still two goals behind Zambia when it comes to the overall lead. 

It’s not looking good from here unfortunately off the back of their opening game loss v Germany the other day before Opening Ceremony Friday 3-0. So 7 goals conceded so far in this Olympic tourney and all they need to do now is hopefully turn this around to make it 4-4 all draw or a 5-4 win. 

That way, they can still be in the running to play knockout football ahead of their next game v Team USA mid-week.

Wow!! Anything can happen that quick in soccer when the game wasn’t over with one x 45 done from behind to wrapping up the other 45 mins with the 6-5 win. We thought it was game over when Zambia extended their lead to five not long after half-time thanks to a free-kick that went against them. Fortunately, a few fresh faces from the bench by coach Tony Gustavsson have made a big difference though being led by veteran forward Michelle Hayman & Arsenal women’s No.9 Caitlin Foord.

The Tillies were able to gain more control of the ball where plenty of shots were flying everywhere towards the keeper. Although another quick goal attempt was denied via the VAR, but they still mean business thanks to these winning free-kicks including a 5th straight penalty kick by Steph Catley before Heyman scored the 6th and winning goal on what has been an unreal comeback for the win.

Fair play to Zambia with their really good first half performance that gave our Matildas a hard time along the way including their extended lead for a bit longer. But a couple of defensive mistakes including from the keeper forced their hand to the Tillies where they could’ve still hold onto the lead had the ball not been mistaken into the net. And unfortunately, Zambia just couldn’t shy from the quality the Tilles had to offer before it was too late as the clock ticks down with the game-finishing loss. I’m sure they will come back stronger next time.

All the Matildas have to do now is be at their best v Team USA and as long as New Zealand lose to France at the same time mid-week, then they will get a 2nd chance in the Quarter-Finals. 

You may also like

Leave a Comment