The Olympic aspirations of the Matildas are now uncertain after a commendable effort against the United States was thwarted by goals from Trinity Rodman and Korbin Albert in Marseille.
As a result of the defeat, Australia finds itself in third place in Group B, awaiting the outcomes of other matches later in the day to determine if they can advance to the quarter-finals or face elimination. The United States, on the other hand, finishes at the top of the group and will meet Japan in Paris on Saturday.
In their 34 previous meetings, the Matildas had succeeded in defeating the US only once, six years ago in Seattle. During the last Olympics, their group-stage match concluded without a goal, and the Americans later triumphed in a chaotic bronze medal showdown. With a quarter-final berth at stake, it was crucial for the Matildas to overcome their historical record at the Stade Vélodrome.
The US began strongly, immediately pressuring the Australian backline. A yellow card for Samantha Coffey just three minutes in means she will miss the quarter-final. The United States had an early chance when Matildas goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold mishandled a shot; however, resolute defending led to a clearance.
This moment foreshadowed the first-half showdown: the American attacking lineup versus the Australian keeper, affectionately known as the “Minister of Defence.” Arnold was outstanding, successfully blocking a powerful effort from Rodman after a dangerous break, punching away a long shot from Crystal Dunn, and displaying quick reflexes to deflect a header from Lindsey Horan onto the crossbar.
Following a dismal defensive display against Zambia, where the Matildas conceded five goals and needed last-ditch heroics from Michelle Heyman to avoid embarrassment, this performance was a significant improvement. The Matildas formed a compact unit, often deploying 11 players behind the ball during much of the first half. While the possession stats heavily favored the US at 72% by halftime, their defensive organization was largely effective.
However, in the 44th minute, the Matildas faced a setback. An out-swinging corner found Sophia Smith, whose header, initially sailing wide, was nudged into the net by Rodman, catching a surprised Arnold off guard. The Matildas’ defensive effort was breached by a clever play amidst the chaos.
Yet, just before the restart, French referee François Letexier paused the game to consult with a sideline official. Despite the commotion, Letexier signaled that the goal was valid, leading to frustration for Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson, who received a yellow card for his protests. After some delays due to apparent technical issues with his headset, Letexier ultimately reviewed the Video Assistant Referee screen but concluded there was no reason to overturn the decision. What was a chaotic sequence ended with the Americans taking the lead into halftime.
In the second half, the Matildas started with renewed vigor, prompting Gustavsson to make substitutions, introducing super-sub Heyman and veteran Emily van Egmond. Australia needed an equalizer to secure a quarter-final spot, and the substitutions indicated their intent to press forward.
However, with Australia pushing for a goal, they left openings for the US to exploit, which they did ruthlessly in the 77th minute when Korbin Albert seized on a misplayed clearance to unleash a powerful shot into the top corner from 25 yards.
The second goal did not deter the Matildas, who continued to pursue an answer, understanding that goal difference could play a crucial role in their progression. Finally, deep into injury time, the Matildas were rewarded for their persistence as central defender Alanna Kennedy connected with a flick-on from Heyman to beat American goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher.
This loss leaves the Matildas’ chances at Paris 2024 precariously balanced, reliant on favorable results in two Group A matches later on Wednesday night. Unless they advance as one of the two best third-placed teams, it could mean the end of their Olympic dreams and the most disappointing tournament result under Gustavsson.
