Detail in image of Matildas cult hero says it all

The Matildas blew everyone away with a masterclass on Wednesday night and one detail showed the perfect tribute.

Mackenzie Arnold is the hero we all need. Photo: Network 10.

Mackenzie Arnold’s status as a national hero is indisputable — and we saw why during the Matildas win over Uzbekistan on Wednesday night.

The Matildas took any drama out of reaching this year’s Paris Olympics with an extraordinary first half against Uzbekistan, ultimately marching to a stunning 10-0 triumph in their final Olympics qualifier.

Stream Over 50 Sports Live & On-Demand with Kayo. New to Kayo? Start Your Free Trial Today >

Michelle Heyman scored four first half goals as the Tillies banged in eight goals in the first half in front of a rocking crowd of 54,120 at Marvel Stadium.

Despite all the goals scored, plenty of fans were more interested in what was happening at the other end of the field with Arnold enjoying a quiet night in goals.

The goalkeeper received the largest cheer out of all the Matildas when their names were announced before walking out onto the field for the first time — and the affection for the 30-year-old continued after full time when she was interviewed by Network 10’s Niav Owens.

Arnold, who became one of Australia’s most-loved athletes following her quarter-final penalty shootout heroics, was introduced on the TV broadcast as the “minister of defence” — instead of the usual tradition of listing the player’s position and stats.

Mackenzie Arnold is the hero we all need. Photo: Network 10.

Mackenzie Arnold kept a clean sheet. Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images.

For the first time in her career, Arnold’s purple goalkeeper jersey was on sale for fans to buy last week — and she was greeted with sections of the stadium looking purple on Wednesday night.

Matildas diehards, who were unable to buy Arnold’s Nike jersey at the World Cup, finally got their chance last week — but the jerseys sold out almost instantly.

After saving four penalties during Australia’s epic quarter-final win over France last year, Arnold earned her title as the minister of defence — and had plenty calling for a statue to be built in her honour.

It’s why the brilliant tribute from Network 10 producers struck a chord with viewers — and added to what was an epic night for Arnold.

Who at @Channel10AU put Minister of Defence under Mackenzie Arnold’s name during her interview is a genius!! #Matildaspic.twitter.com/MwS9yMB2x5

— Nat 🐯 (@Natsky1988) February 28, 2024

She said she was blown away to see the reception she received on Wednesday night.

“Seeing them walk into the stadium with my jersey on is something that I probably never thought would have happened,” she said.

She went on to say: “Honestly it’s been amazing. Seeing the purple jerseys in here, I actually can’t believe it.”

Based on their recent performances and efforts at the World Cup, the Matildas must surely be medal contenders when the Paris Olympics begin in July.

Originally published as Detail in image of Matildas cult hero says it all