The Matildas faced a challenging start to their Paris 2024 Women’s Olympic Football Tournament campaign, falling 3-0 to world number four Germany at the Stade de Marseille on Thursday night.
Germany’s Marina Hegering opened the scoring in the first half, followed by two second-half goals from Lea Schüller and Jule Brand, sealing the win for the European powerhouse.
Read Also: Australia Jess Fox and Eddie Ockenden to Lead as Flag Bearers at Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony
A Mixed Bag for Olympic Debutants
The starting line-up saw several Matildas make their Olympic debuts, including defender Clare Hunt and forward Cortnee Vine. Meanwhile, Katrina Gorry returned to the Olympic stage after an eight-year absence. Despite the initial nerves, the Matildas started positively, finding space behind the German defense twice in the opening 10 minutes and earning two early corners.
Germany Takes the Lead
However, Germany took the lead through a corner from Giulia Gwinn, which was headed home by Marina Hegering. The rest of the half was a closely contested battle with both sides unable to convert their chances, leaving Germany ahead 1-0 at the break.
Second-Half Struggles
Australia attempted to push forward after the restart, with Ellie Carpenter and Hayley Raso probing the German defense. Despite their efforts, it was Germany who struck first in the second half. Jule Brand’s long-range effort was a warning sign, and soon after, Lea Schüller doubled Germany’s lead with a header from another Gwinn corner.
Late Substitutions and Germany’s Third
Tony Gustavsson made several substitutions, including Clare Wheeler and Sharn Freier, who both made their Olympic debuts. Australia tried to rally with Clare Wheeler and Mary Fowler both coming close to scoring. However, Germany capitalized on another set piece, and Lea Schüller found the net again to make it 2-0. Four minutes later, Germany’s rapid transition play saw Sarai Linder assist Jule Brand for the third and final goal.
Michelle Heyman made her Olympic return for the first time since 2016, alongside Emily van Egmond and Olympic debutant Kaitlyn Torpey, but the Matildas could not find a way back into the match.
Looking Ahead
Australia will aim to bounce back in their second Group B match against Zambia at the Stade de Nice. The match will take place at 3am AEST on Monday, July 29, 2024 (7pm Sunday, July 28 local time).
Read Also: Paris 2024 Olympic Games Dates, Events, Viewing Options and More
Australia vs. Zambia
Date: Sunday, July 28, 2024 (local) / Monday, July 29, 2024 (AEST)
Kick-off: 7.00pm (local) / 3.00am AEST
Venue: Stade de Nice, Nice, France
Broadcast: Channel 9, 9Now & Stan Sport (Australia)
Australia vs. United States
Date: Wednesday, July 31, 2024 (local) / Thursday, August 1, 2024 (AEST)
Kick-off: 7.00pm (local) / 3.00am AEST
Venue: Stade de Marseille, Marseille, France
Broadcast: Channel 9, 9Now & Stan Sport (Australia)
Stay tuned for more updates as the Matildas continue their quest for Olympic glory.
