Seeing a world of difference in side
AAP FOOTBALL THERE are many factors at play turning the Matildas into a world soccer superpower, and foreign experience is right up there.
Ahead of two friendlies with Brazil this weekend, there’s a decidedly international feel within the team camp.
For the first time in Matildas history, coach Alen Stajcic could field an entirely foreignbased side.
The Matildas have flown into the side’s Sydney-based camp from the USA, Norway, Germany and Japan.
“Everyone has shown a bit more interest in going overseas this year without a major tournament like the World Cup or Olympics,” Japan-based midfielder Katrina Gorry said.
“It’s to get the experience and better different parts of our games. I think that’s really shown in our performances.”
At the Tournament of Nations last month, which Australia won, Stajcic came close to his first foreign-based XI.
The 14-player side used to beat world champions USA contained just two Australiabased players – emerging defender Ellie Carpenter, who is just 17, and legendary striker Lisa De Vanna – who has played in England, Sweden and the USA.
At the other end of the spectrum, Elise Kellond-Knight, playing with table-topping German club Turbine Potsdam, has enjoyed a pre-season playing against European heavyweights Arsenal Paris St Germain.
Club commitments are likely to rule her out of the upcoming W-League season, but Gorry says she’ll be back with Brisbane Roar.
Steph Catley will also return home to captain Melbourne City at the conclusion of her overseas season with Orlando Pride.
Catley is one of five USbased Matildas, led by goalscoring wonder Sam Kerr.
Her stint at the Pride has allowed her to get the lowdown on this week’s opponents.
Three of Brazil’s squad, including five-time world player of the year Marta, are part of the title-chasing Pride.
“Marta is an incredible player and really hard to mark. Fortunately I’m training with her so I know what’s coming,” Catley said. and