Sermanni’s Frustration Grows After SheBelieves Cup
The Matildas had a rough time in the U.S. They lost all three of their games just a year before the Asian Cup. Interim coach Tom Sermanni was let down after Australia lost 2-1 to Colombia in San Diego. This loss meant they went winless in the SheBelieves Cup after also losing to Japan and the U.S. Sermanni’s Frustration Grows After SheBelieves Cup.
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“We had control of the game, created chances, and played pretty well,” Sermanni said. But the team had trouble turning chances into goals. This has been a problem throughout the tournament.
Early Struggles Continue for the Matildas
Once again, Australia gave up an early goal, a trend that’s hurt them in recent games. Colombia scored in the 15th minute with a strong shot from Wendy Bonilla that hit the post before going in.
Even after falling behind, the Matildas kept pushing for a goal. Their hard work paid off in the 69th minute when Hayley Raso scored, bringing Australia back in the game.
A Short-Lived Comeback
Just a few minutes later, Colombia answered with a goal from their captain, Catalina Usme, putting them back in the lead. This quick change left Sermanni feeling frustrated.
“The tough part was when we tied the game, we should have pushed harder and taken charge,” he said. “Instead, we lost focus and gave up an easy goal.”
The Matildas fought hard at the end, but it wasn’t enough to level the score again. They ended up last in the four-team tournament, a tough result for the team.
Looking Ahead to the Asian Cup
Despite the setbacks, Sermanni is focused on getting the team ready for what’s next. They have two games against South Korea coming up in April. He believes they will be better by then.
“We didn’t prepare as well for this tournament, so our performances were all over the place,” he said. “By April, all our players will be back with their clubs, and that should help us get ready.”
The SheBelieves Cup showed some of the Matildas’ weak spots, but with time to make changes, Sermanni is hopeful they can improve before hosting the Asian Cup next year. Sermanni’s Frustration Grows After SheBelieves Cup.