Australia announces provisional squad for Women’s World Cup 2023
Australia Women’s World Cup squad : Australia’s national women’s football team, led by coach Tony Gustavsson, has unveiled its provisional 29-woman squad for the upcoming World Cup. The selection sees the inclusion of several key players who have been battling injuries, namely Kyah Simon, Alanna Kennedy, Chloe Logarzo, and Emily Gielnik.
While their fitness will be assessed in the coming weeks, seasoned midfielder Elise Kellond-Knight unfortunately misses out due to an Achilles injury. This article delves into the squad announcement, the players’ recovery journeys, and the Matildas’ upcoming challenges in Group B.
Also Read : Premier League fixtures schedule 2023-24 in full
Kyah Simon’s Long-Awaited Comeback
In 2019, Australia felt the absence of veteran striker Kyah Simon during the World Cup in France. Dealing with an injury, she had to watch from the sidelines. However, fate struck again when she suffered an anterior cruciate ligament tear in her knee last October, leaving her without game time ever since. Simon now has an opportunity to demonstrate her fitness and prove her worth to the team.
Alanna Kennedy’s Determined Recovery
Center back Alanna Kennedy endured a frustrating club season with Manchester City due to recurring injuries. Despite the setbacks, Kennedy’s resilience has earned her a place in the provisional squad. Her journey back to full fitness will be closely monitored, as her defensive prowess is crucial to the Matildas’ success in the tournament.
Chloe Logarzo’s Battle for Redemption
Midfielder Chloe Logarzo faced disappointment when American club Kansas City released her in March. On top of that, she has encountered foot problems while recovering from a serious knee issue. Logarzo’s determination to overcome these obstacles has earned her recognition, as she aims to contribute her skills and experience to the national team.
Emily Gielnik’s Road to Recovery
Emily Gielnik, an experienced forward with 57 international caps, suffered an ankle injury in March and was subsequently released by English side Aston Villa. Now, as she works her way back to peak form, Gielnik’s return to the squad provides a much-needed boost in the attacking department for the Matildas.
Elise Kellond-Knight’s Unfortunate Omission
Devastating news struck midfielder Elise Kellond-Knight, whose World Cup dreams were dashed due to an Achilles injury sustained in March. Her absence will undoubtedly be felt, as Kellond-Knight’s skill and composure on the field have been instrumental in previous campaigns.
Notable Exclusions
Melbourne City forward Holly McNamara and Danish-based center back Matilda McNamara were not included in the provisional squad. Matilda McNamara had notably been part of the team that secured a remarkable 2-0 victory over European champions England in April. Their omission highlights the competitive nature of the selection process and the tough decisions faced by Coach Gustavsson.
Australia provisional squad:
Goalkeepers: Mackenzie Arnold, Teagan Micah, Jada Whyman, Lydia Williams
Defenders: Ellie Carpenter, Steph Catley, Charlotte Grant, Clare Hunt, Alanna Kennedy, Aivi Luik, Courtney Nevin, Clare Polkinghorne
Midfielders: Alex Chidiac, Kyra Cooney-Cross, Katrina Gorry, Chloe Logarzo, Amy Sayer, Emily van Egmond, Clare Wheeler, Tameka Yallop
Forwards: Larissa Crummer, Caitlin Foord, Mary Fowler, Emily Gielnik, Sam Kerr, Hayley Raso, Remy Siemsen, Kyah Simon, Cortnee Vine.
