Australia’s Matildas began a new era under interim coach Tom Sermanni with a 1-1 draw against Switzerland in Zurich. While the result marked a steady start after a tough Olympic campaign, the match left a crucial question hanging in the air. The team is still searching for the best way to utilize the immense talent of 21-year-old star Mary Fowler, who found it difficult to influence the game.
Fowler’s Quiet Night a Pressing Concern
Mary Fowler, who shines brightly for her club Manchester City, has not yet consistently brought that same magic to the national team. In Saturday’s match, she was positioned up front in a 5-3-2 formation but seemed isolated from the midfield and the main flow of the attack.
Coach Tom Sermanni acknowledged that the Swiss defense did an excellent job of containing her. He also pointed out that the Matildas’ play was heavily focused on the left flank, which limited Fowler’s chances to get on the ball and create opportunities. Finding a way to integrate Fowler effectively is a top priority, especially with star striker Sam Kerr currently out with an injury.
Several factors contributed to her quiet performance:
- She was often isolated from the midfield, leading to a disconnect in attack.
- The team’s tendency to build up play on the left side meant she had very few touches.
- Switzerland’s organized defense successfully closed down space around her.
Sermanni has stated he will analyze the game footage to find a better solution for Fowler, but the long-term answer may depend on the tactical approach of the next permanent coach.
Defensive Adjustments under Sermanni Show Mixed Results
Tom Sermanni’s main goal in his temporary role is to bring stability to the team and shore up the defense. His conservative tactical style was evident, and the Matildas looked more organized at the back, although they were not flawless.
Australia managed to take the lead just before halftime. Caitlin Foord made a powerful run into the box, earning a penalty that she confidently converted. However, the lead didn’t last long. In the 58th minute, a period of sustained Swiss pressure ended with an equalizer. The Matildas struggled to clear the ball from their box, and Geraldine Reuteler capitalized on the confusion to level the score.
The defense was nearly breached again in the final moments, highlighting that there is still work to be done.
| Event | Minute | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Foord’s Penalty Goal | 45 | Caitlin Foord earned and scored a penalty to give Australia the lead. |
| Reuteler’s Equalizer | 58 | A poor defensive clearance allowed Switzerland to score their only goal. |
| Baumann’s Late Scare | 90 | Switzerland hit the crossbar, nearly snatching a late winner. |
A Bright Future as Daniela Galic Makes Her Debut
One of the most encouraging takeaways from the match was the international debut of 17-year-old Daniela Galic. She was brought on for the final 13 minutes and showed immediate composure and confidence on the ball.
While she had limited time to make a significant impact, her brief appearance impressed both fans and the coaching staff. Sermanni later mentioned he might have brought her on earlier, a testament to the potential he sees in the young midfielder. Galic’s debut signals a period of transition for the Matildas, with new talent being integrated into the squad. Her development could be a key factor in the team’s future success.
An Even Bigger Challenge Awaits Against Germany
The Matildas will not have much time to reflect, as their next opponent is a formidable one. They are set to face Germany, a team that comfortably beat them 3-0 during the Olympics. The match will also be an emotional one, serving as the final international appearance for German football legend Alexandra Popp.
Sermanni knows his team must raise their level to compete. However, he also sees an opportunity. Germany’s aggressive, high-pressing style could create more space for Australia’s attackers. If the Matildas can handle the pace and hold onto the ball, it might be the perfect environment for a player like Mary Fowler to finally find the room she needs to make a difference.
