The Matildas’ often-maligned defence will obtain a stern and welcome check in opposition to Spain in Sunday night time’s Cup of Nations conflict at CommBank Stadium.
Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson has by no means apologised for his attacking philosophy – usually on the expense of defending – because the begin of his tenure two years in the past.
Spain been of the groups to have uncovered Australia’s defensive deficiencies in that point, having thrashed the an under-strength Matildas outfit 7-0 in Huelva in June final yr.
Gustavsson mentioned that heavy defeat “sits by itself”, and predicted a equally troublesome task on Sunday night time within the Matildas’ ongoing preparations for this yr’s FIFA Women’s World Cup.
“The one thing that Spain gives us now is an opportunity to test our defence against the best team in the world because that has to be done if you look at what side of the draw we’re on (at the World Cup),” Gustavsson mentioned.
“We can face similar opposition that can break us down … so in that sense Spain gives us a fantastic opportunity to test our defending.
“If you defend individually against the top teams, they break you down. You need to do it collectively.
“The only way to get exposed is against the top opposition. We need to get exposed and feel that now so we can fix it before the World Cup.”
The Matildas saved a clear sheet in thrashing Czechia 4-0 on Thursday night time, whereas the Spaniards additionally began their Cup of Nations marketing campaign on a profitable observe, downing Jamaica 3-0.
“There’s much more availability (for Sunday) than the last game, which means there’s competition for spots,” Gustavsson mentioned.
“It’s going to be a long discussion among coaches, not just about the starting line-up, but how we play the game after 90 minutes.”
Originally printed as Matildas to relish robust defensive task in opposition to Spain in Cup of Nations
Source: www.dailytelegraph.com.au
