Australia coach Tony Gustavsson has defended fielding rookie-laden teams against quality opposition after becoming a lightning rod for criticism following the Matildas’ 5-0 thrashing by Olympic champions Canada.
The heavy defeat in a friendly in Langford, British Columbia, on Friday was Australia’s worst loss since a 7-0 hiding by Spain in June last year.
Australian media slammed Gustavsson for picking an experimental side against the Canadians, but the Swede said the players would benefit in the long run.
Photo: EPA-EFE
“I know some people will probably go like: ‘Hey, is this fair to the players to give them this type of experience?’” he told a news conference in Vancouver on Monday.
“They love it. This is what they want, they want to play against a top team, they want to learn, and as long as I make sure I create a safe space for them to get this experience, it’s what they need,” Gustavsson said.
With captain Sam Kerr and first-choice goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold injured, Gustavsson also rested top players Caitlin Foord, Steph Catley and Ellie Carpenter.
He was expected to revert to his strongest available team for the second match against the Canadians in Vancouver yesterday, which doubles as Canadian star Christine Sinclair’s final international.
The BC Place stadium has been renamed Sinclair Place in honor of Canada’s 40-year-old striker, who holds a world record 190 goals in internationals.
“Before the game I hope that we can be a part of honoring her, because that real respect she deserves. I know the players want to do it as well,” Gustavsson said. “But the best way to respect her once the game starts is to make it a game, a proper game and really compete — because that’s what she wants.”
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