Matildas miss the mark as Canada pounced, Australia reacts

The Matlidas have suffered a brutal loss to Olympic gold medallists Canada which has fans nervous about what they’ve seen.

Tony Gustavsson’s unconvincing reign as Matildas coach has continued with Australia’s 1-0 loss to Canada at Suncorp Stadium.

A superb 12th-minute strike from Manchester United winger Adriana Leon was enough for the Canadians to prevail in the opening match of two-game series between the nations.

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And while the Matildas, particularly skipper Sam Kerr, had their chances, they too often lacked intensity in a concerning side ahead of next year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup, which is being co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand

The scoreline threatened to blow out in the closing stages as the Matildas pushed forward in search of an equaliser

However, the Canadians could not add their lead, with Nichelle Prince and substitute Cloe Lacasse both blowing golden opportunities.

Nothing went right for the Matildas. Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images

But one goal was to prove sufficient for the reigning Olympic gold medallists, who will had into Tuesday night’s second game of the series in Sydney confident of a clean sweep.

Swedish mentor Gustavsson needs a win on Tuesday to justify that he’s the best coach guide the Matildas at next year’s World Cup, despite him being contracted until 2024.

Defensive frailties that have been evident throughout his reign remain, with Leon afforded far too much space outside the penalty area when scoring the only goal of Saturday’s match.

MORE than enough chances to kill that game off. Better finishing and more sound decision-making in crucial areas costing the Matildas today. Promising signs but work to be done. Still not convinced by Gustavsson. #AUSvCAN

— Lucy Zelić (@LucyZelic) September 3, 2022

Matildas must be relieved that Canada are only in “preparation mode” today. Could’ve easily shipped three or four more. #AUSvCAN

— George Clarke (@GLR_Clarke) September 3, 2022

It was a frustrating day for the Matildas as skipper Sam Kerr was wasteful in front of goal in the first-half.

Twice in the opening five minutes she has opportunities, but on both occasions she was foiled by Canadian goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan,

Kerr’s frustration continued in the 27th minute when she seemed certain to score after outpacing Canada’s defence in receiving a sublime through ball from midfield general Katrina Gorry.

But with only Sheridan to beat, Kerr seemed to hesitate. Rather than shooting as the goalkeeper advanced towards here, the Chelsea star attempted to dribble around Sheridan, who comfortably foiled Australia’s captain.

Tough day for Kerr and the Matildas. Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images

Kerr again failed to produce a decisive finish in the 37th minute with a weak shot that was dealt with by Sheridan,

Kerr’s chances dried up in the second half, with Canada making a better fist of limiting the service provided to her.

However, Kerr had one final chance to equalise in stoppage time via a header from a Gorry corner.

But Sheridan again came to Canada’s rescue, tipping the ball over the crossbar.

The Matildas were hit with the first-half loss of key defender Alanna Kennedy, who was forced off with what seemed to be a hamstring injury.

It’s doubtful Kennedy will recover in time for Tuesday’s second match of the series in a blow to reversing Saturday’ result.

Originally published as Matildas miss the mark as Canada pounced, Australia reacts