FIFA Women’s World Cup: Australia coach Gustavsson rues missed chances after semi-final loss vs England

In the aftermath of the FIFA Women’s World Cup semi-finals, Australia’s coach Tony Gustavsson was left contemplating what could have been. The Matildas, Australia’s national women’s football team, were defeated 3-1 by England, the reigning European champions, on Wednesday. The match, which took place at Stadium Australia in Sydney, was witnessed by an enthusiastic crowd of 75,784 spectators.

Despite a spectacular goal from Sam Kerr, Australia’s star striker, the Matildas were unable to overcome goals from England’s Ella Toone, Lauren Hemp, and Alessia Russo. Prior to the match, Gustavsson had pointed out the disparity in quality between the two teams, with some of his players hailing from mid-tier Swedish teams or playing in Australia’s less competitive domestic league.

However, following the match, Gustavsson noted that Australia had created as many opportunities as their English counterparts. “It’s one of those nights where they were more clinical than us in the finishing,” he told Channel Seven after the game.

He praised his team’s solid defense in the first half and encouraged them to play with more confidence.

Kerr, who was making her tournament debut after recovering from a calf injury, was largely contained by England’s defense in the first half. However, she brought the stadium to life in the 62nd minute with a stunning 25-yard strike that leveled the score. Despite this momentum, England remained resilient, with Hemp and Russo scoring to secure their victory.

Following the match, a visibly disappointed Australian squad, some reduced to tears, must now regroup for a third-place playoff against Sweden on Saturday. Despite the loss, Kerr expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from fans. “We’ve felt the love all over the country,” she said. “So hopefully this stays around because this has been amazing for us.”