The Matildas' 5-0 thrashing of New Zealand in a friendly match was a resounding victory that left no doubts about Australia's dominance over their Kiwi counterparts. The team's attacking intent was on full display, with a plethora of chances created that will give the players immense confidence ahead of the Asian Cup.
While not perfect, the performance was one of the best seen by this tenure under coach Joe Montemurro, with the side displaying free-flowing football in the first half. It was a welcome change from their recent form, which had raised concerns about consistency and competitiveness.
The difference in talent between the two teams is well-documented, but it's also clear that Australia's dominance extends beyond just numbers. The Kiwis' calamitous defending left no stone unturned as they conceded an unprecedented five goals without responding.
Goals from Amy Sayer, Hayley Raso, Kyra Cooney-Cross, and Ellie Carpenter sealed the win for Australia, while Holly McNamara set up Caitlin Foord for the fifth goal. The result will be a welcome boost to the team ahead of the Asian Cup, where they're likely to face opponents with less credentials than New Zealand.
The victory also serves as a counterpoint to recent form, which had painted a narrative of doom and gloom around Australia's prospects in the tournament. With this kind of performance, there's reason to believe that Australia won't be facing England-level competitors at next year's Asian Cup.
While it's unlikely that opponents will replicate New Zealand's level of defending, an ability to win games like this one is crucial for Australia's chances of success. By producing performances like this, the Matildas can build momentum and confidence ahead of the tournament, and the victory will be a significant step in the right direction.
While not perfect, the performance was one of the best seen by this tenure under coach Joe Montemurro, with the side displaying free-flowing football in the first half. It was a welcome change from their recent form, which had raised concerns about consistency and competitiveness.
The difference in talent between the two teams is well-documented, but it's also clear that Australia's dominance extends beyond just numbers. The Kiwis' calamitous defending left no stone unturned as they conceded an unprecedented five goals without responding.
Goals from Amy Sayer, Hayley Raso, Kyra Cooney-Cross, and Ellie Carpenter sealed the win for Australia, while Holly McNamara set up Caitlin Foord for the fifth goal. The result will be a welcome boost to the team ahead of the Asian Cup, where they're likely to face opponents with less credentials than New Zealand.
The victory also serves as a counterpoint to recent form, which had painted a narrative of doom and gloom around Australia's prospects in the tournament. With this kind of performance, there's reason to believe that Australia won't be facing England-level competitors at next year's Asian Cup.
While it's unlikely that opponents will replicate New Zealand's level of defending, an ability to win games like this one is crucial for Australia's chances of success. By producing performances like this, the Matildas can build momentum and confidence ahead of the tournament, and the victory will be a significant step in the right direction.
- love how confident the Aussie team looks after that win! Interesting 
they really showed their attacking prowess and now they're gonna take that energy into the Asian Cup 
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The Matildas are on fire 
! I'm loving their attacking intent, they're playing some seriously slick football 
! It's great to see them bounce back from that recent slump and show everyone what they're capable of 
. Joe Montemurro must be doing something right with the team - they looked so free-flowing out there 
. That 5-0 win was a bit ridiculous, I know, but you can't deny the confidence boost it gives them ahead of the Asian Cup 
. I'm not getting my hopes up too high just yet, but this kind of performance is exactly what they need to build momentum and get those results under their belt 
. It's like a game-changer for coffee lovers! They use this special beans blend from Japan or something... I don't know the details, but it tastes SO good 
. Anyway, back to football... I'm loving the Matildas' form right now! Australia's got some talented players for sure 
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I think what was on full display here was the difference in tactical cohesion between these two teams - Australia's fluid football was a masterclass in exploiting space and New Zealand's defense was woefully ill-prepared to deal with it 
. It's also worth noting that while there are certainly disparities in talent, this highlights the importance of developing a strong team culture and system 
. The Matildas' performance was all about confidence and momentum, which will undoubtedly serve them well going into the Asian Cup 
Australia just thrashed New Zealand 5-0 in a friendly match and it's defo the best win 4 them in ages! 
Montemurro's team played so well, with plenty of chances created - can't w8 2 c them take on England in the Asian Cup now 
The Kiwis' defense was SO bad tho... 
Amy Sayer, Hayley Raso & co all scored goals and it was a huge confidence boost 4 the team 
And let's be real, New Zealand's defending was...not great. 
It's like they expected the Matildas to score and then just hoped for a miracle.
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Their attacking intent is so inspiring to watch, every player seems to be playing with such freedom and confidence 
It's not just about the talent difference, they really showed what it means to execute a game plan flawlessly 
Australia is on fire right now, and I'm loving every minute of it 
Coach Montemurro must be doing something right. 
But seriously, this is a huge confidence boost for the team ahead of the Asian Cup. They should be feeling on top of the world right now 
they're showing the world what they're made of and i'm living for it 
Australia's squad looks super strong, and if they can keep performing like this, I think they've got a good shot at taking home the trophy. 
. And honestly, it's refreshing to see Australia playing some free-flowing football after their recent form was pretty meh 
. I'm loving the confidence boost for the team and I think this win will be a significant stepping stone for them in the tournament 
. Montemurro's coaching skills are really paying off and I'm so hyped for the Asian Cup now! Can't wait to see them take on England and other top teams 
And another thing, what's with the lack of updates on the comments section? It takes ages to get a response on here and by the time you do, you're already behind. 
The Kiwis just couldn't cope with the Matildas' attacking intent. And to think they're gonna be facing less credentials than New Zealand at the Asian Cup... that's some good news for us Aussies.