In a high-energy clash that had fans on the edge of their seats, Australia’s women’s football team secured a 2-0 victory over China in a friendly match hosted in Sydney. The game marked the end of China’s two-match tour under new coach Ante Milicic, who took the helm earlier this year. 🌏
Farewell to a Legend 🧤
A record-breaking crowd of 76,798 packed Sydney’s Accor Stadium to honor retiring Australian goalkeeper Lydia Williams, who will step back from international play after the Paris Olympics. The emotional pre-game ceremony set the stage for a fiercely competitive match.
Goals & Grit ⚡
Australia dominated early, firing eight shots in the first half. But China’s goalkeeper Xu Huan held strong, keeping the score level until halftime. The second half saw a rapid shift: Clare Wheeler’s header broke the deadlock in the 48th minute, followed by Hayley Raso’s unstoppable strike eight minutes later.
China’s New Era 🌟
Despite the loss, China’s star forward Wang Shuang highlighted progress under Milicic: \"Our young players are getting braver—dribbling, passing, and taking risks. That’s how we grow.\" Milicic praised the team’s defensive structure and hinted at future improvements: \"With more international matches, we’ll refine our attack and create real threats.\"
The tour ended with a 1-1 draw and this loss, but Milicic remains optimistic: \"In 18 months, with 15-20 high-level games, this team will surprise everyone.\" 📈
