In a thrilling yet frustrating match at Perth’s Steel Blue Oval, the Matildas were held to a 1-1 draw by Slovenia. A 91st-minute goal from substitute Mirjam Kastelec dashed Australia’s hopes for consecutive wins under new coach Joe Montemurro, overshadowing an otherwise strong performance by the team.
Context and Stakes
The Matildas, fresh from a 3-0 win over Slovenia, aimed to solidify their possession-focused style under coach Montemurro. After months of tactical trials, Montemurro stressed precise build-up from defense and sharp attacking plays. The Perth match offered another opportunity to evaluate the team before July games against Panama in Busselton and Bunbury.
First Half: Stalemate Maintained
Defensive Solidity
The match started cautiously. The Matildas, in their green-and-gold, controlled the midfield but faced a tough Slovenian press. Slovenia, driven by coach Matjaž Kek’s focus on fast ball recovery, pushed Australia into rushed clearances early on.
Mackenzie Arnold, in her second game post-injury, faced little challenge. A low cross from Slovenia’s left side in the 18th minute briefly posed a threat, but Arnold confidently stepped forward to secure the ball, easing the early tension.
Midfield Battle
Midfielder Amy Sayer stood out with her relentless energy, intercepting passes and smoothly passing to teammates. Her connection with Ellie Carpenter on the right pushed into attack, though their final passes often lacked the precision to challenge Slovenian keeper Lara Prata. On the left, Remy Siemsen and Charli Grant switched wings, trying to find gaps in Slovenia’s defense. Despite moments of promising play, neither team created a clear chance before halftime. The score was 0-0 at the break, highlighting a strategic battle rather than a lack of effort.
Second Half: Breakthrough and Late Drama
Australia Takes the Lead
Montemurro’s halftime advice worked wonders. Just five minutes into the second half, Australia shattered Slovenia’s defense. Siemsen, exploiting space on the left, sent a precise pass to Ellie Carpenter. Carpenter, under pressure, skillfully controlled the ball and delivered a perfect cutback into the box. Veteran striker Michelle Heyman executed a flawless run and volleyed the ball past a helpless Prata.
Heyman, back from a six-month break for European club duties, scored her first international goal, thrilling 9,420 fans. Her celebration with teammates Emma Koivisto and Mary Fowler highlighted her sharp instincts in the box.
Slovenia’s Response
Slovenia, energized, brought on 22-year-old substitute Naja Poje Mihelič in the 60th minute to refresh their midfield. Mihelič’s energy unsettled Australia, pushing forward and causing mistakes in their defense. In the 68th minute, Mihelič’s close-range header was deflected over the bar by Arnold, showing Slovenia’s intent to stay aggressive.
Charli Grant almost increased the lead in the 70th minute. After receiving a pass from Sayer, she aimed and shot low, hitting the post and surprising the Perth crowd. The ball rebounded to Mary Fowler, but her attempt was stopped by defender Lina Eržen right at the goal line.
Late Drama and Equaliser
Australia seemed set for victory as the match neared its end. However, Slovenia’s determination changed the game. In the 90th minute, Poje Mihelič struck a curling shot from the box’s edge, hitting the far post. Mirjam Kastelec, a 23-year-old forward who had just entered the game, swiftly reacted. She slid past the retreating Australian defense and scored from the rebound.
The 1-1 equalizer shocked everyone. Joe Montemurro’s team, momentarily unfocused in defense, could only watch as Kastelec celebrated. It highlighted the thin line between success and failure in international football.
Tactical Analysis
Possession-Based Principles
Australia’s performance improved significantly under Montemurro’s possession-focused strategy. In Perth, Australia controlled the ball for 62% of the game, a stark contrast to the 32% possession they had against Slovenia earlier in the week. Central midfielders Katrina Gorry and Sinead Farrelly skillfully directed the play, working with Sayer to overcome Slovenia’s pressing tactics.
Defensive Adjustments Needed
A stoppage-time goal reveals persistent defensive weaknesses. Substitutes Cooney-Cross and Kennedy struggled to integrate quickly, leading to a brief lapse exploited by Slovenia. Montemurro will focus on improving transitional strategies in training, stressing concentration until the end.
Player Performances
Michelle Heyman (8/10)
Heyman, with 80 international caps, showcased classic striker skills. Her off-ball movement opened up space, and her precise finishing under pressure was crucial in converting possession into goals.
Ellie Carpenter (7.5/10)
At 22, the wing-back showed strong defense and attacking skills. Carpenter completed 85% of her passes and assisted Heyman’s goal, proving her status as a top Australian talent.
Amy Sayer (7/10)
Sayer’s dynamic presence in midfield was contagious. She led the team in distance covered (10.3km) and made crucial interceptions. However, her passing in the final third needs improvement, as her crosses often missed teammates.
Mackenzie Arnold (6.5/10)
Arnold was called into action twice on challenging shots, displaying sharp reflexes. Her 90th-minute save from a low shot was remarkable, but she couldn’t stop Kastelec’s rebound goal.
Coach’s Post-Match Reflections
Montemurro commended his team for implementing new strategies but admitted the outcome was disappointing. “We generated numerous chances and dominated much of the match,” he stated. “However, we need to maintain focus for the entire 96 minutes. Our defensive standards must remain consistent.
The former Arsenal Women’s coach responded to the late goal by saying, “Football is about moments that shape results. We learn, adapt, and progress.
Looking Ahead: Panama Friendlies
The Matildas are gearing up for friendlies against Panama in Western Australia. Coach Montemurro is rotating the squad: Carpenter, Cooney-Cross, and Kennedy have left, while eight new players, including young attacker Aivi Luik and goalkeeper Teagan Micah, will join soon. The matches on July 5 in Busselton and July 8 in Bunbury are crucial for finalizing the starting lineup before next year’s continental qualifiers.
Fan and Media Reaction
After the match, social media erupted with fans split between admiration for the enhanced playing style and disappointment over lost points. Some praised Montemurro’s tactical vision, noting sharp passing and effective wing play, while others were frustrated by the failure to secure a win.
Craig Foster said Slovenia showed resilience, but Australia controlled the game. The late goal was disappointing, yet it was progress.
Conclusion
Despite a late Slovenian equalizer, Joe Montemurro’s Matildas showed significant improvement in their possession-focused play. Their organized passing, teamwork, and sharp opportunities hint at a promising future if they can tighten their defense in the final moments. As they gear up for the Panama friendlies, the Perth draw offers both a warning and a chance to learn in their quest for global triumph.
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