The Matildas’ often-maligned defence will obtain a stern and welcome check towards 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 – typically 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 12 months.
Gustavsson stated that heavy defeat “sits by itself”, and predicted a equally tough project on Sunday night time within the Matildas’ ongoing preparations for this 12 months’s FIFA Girls’s World Cup.
“The one factor that Spain offers us now is a chance to check our defence towards one of the best group on the planet as a result of that must be finished in the event you have a look at what facet of the draw we’re on (on the World Cup),” Gustavsson stated.
“We will face related opposition that may break us down … so in that sense Spain offers us a incredible alternative to check our defending.
“When you defend individually towards the highest groups, they break you down. You might want to do it collectively.
“The one approach to get uncovered is towards the highest opposition. We have to get uncovered and really feel that now so we will repair it earlier than the World Cup.”
The Matildas stored 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 way more availability (for Sunday) than the final sport, which suggests there’s competitors for spots,” Gustavsson stated.
“It’s going to be an extended dialogue amongst coaches, not simply concerning the beginning line-up, however how we play the sport after 90 minutes.”
