This week in China, the Matildas aim to capitalize on the turmoil surrounding their North Korean rivals, who are shaken by a doping scandal, to kick off their Olympic qualifying journey.
Due to doping violations at this year’s women’s World Cup in Germany, FIFA has penalized North Korea with significant repercussions: five players face bans of up to 18 months, their doctor has been suspended for six years, a fine of $375,000 has been imposed on their association, and the team has been disqualified from the 2015 World Cup.
Among those banned are three players who were part of the North Korean squad that lost to Australia in a penalty shoot-out during last year’s Asian Cup final.
“Clearly, their preparations might be a bit disrupted due to the suspensions,” commented Tom Sermanni, the Australian coach.
“However, they are a very resilient team from a robust country, and thus this match will pose challenges.”
“They have an admirable history in Asian tournaments and will be determined to qualify for the Olympics.”
The disqualification of North Korea from the World Cup incidentally eases Australia’s journey towards the next tournament in Canada; nevertheless, the Olympic qualifying tournament is the primary focus of Sermanni’s team this week.
With five opponents over the span of 11 days, the Matildas aspire to secure a top-two finish in Jinan, China.
“Technically, the number of matches is equivalent to what we faced at the Asian Cup, counting both the semi-final and final,” stated Australian captain Melissa Barbieri.
“So, it’s not an impossible challenge.”
Without striker Sam Kerr, who scored the only goal for the team during the tense 2010 Asian final victory over North Korea, they must earn their place at the 2012 London Olympics.
Kerr suffered a severe knee injury in training; thus, she has been replaced in the squad of 20 by Michelle Heyman, a striker from Canberra United and Illawarra Stingrays.
“Michelle is an excellent addition to the team,” remarked Sermanni.
“Her remarkable pace, flexibility, and physical presence will suit the demands of this tournament, and she serves as a comparable replacement for Sam Kerr.”
The aspiration to compete in London serves as a significant driving force for the Matildas, especially after their absence from the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
“The challenge of five games within 11 days is intimidating,” expressed World Cup All-Star Elise Kellond-Knight.
“Yet we have demonstrated our resilience in the past, and I believe it will prevail again.”
“No matter the fatigue, our team consistently discovers an additional gear, and I trust that will assist us in reaching the Olympics.”
Sermanni anticipates a grueling tournament ahead.
“Many formidable teams are present; numerous challenging matches await, and it may very well be a battle of endurance,” he noted.
by Buford Balony
