Australia v Brazil: Matildas’ foreign legion key to success

There are many factors at play turning the Matildas into a world soccer superpower, and foreign experience is right up there.

Matildas star Katrina Gorry, No 19, in Sydney with the squad this week

Soccer: There are many factors at play turning the Matildas into a world superpower, and foreign experience is right up there.

Ahead of two friendlies with Brazil this weekend, there’s a decidedly international feel within the team camp. For the first time in Matildas history, coach Alen Stajcic could field an entirely foreign-based side.

The Matildas have flown to the side’s Sydney-based camp from the US, Norway, Germany and Japan.

“Everyone has shown a bit more interest in going overseas this year, without a major tournament like the World Cup or Olympics,” Japan-based midfielder Katrina Gorry said.

“It’s to get the experience and better different parts of our games. I think that’s really shown in our performances across the board.”

At the Tournament of Nations last month, which Australia won, Stajcic came close to fielding his first foreign-based XI. The 14 players used to beat world champions US contained just two Australia-based players — both with the talent to play abroad.

One, emerging defender Elise Carpenter, is just 17 and has plenty of time to forge a global career. The other was striker Lisa De Vanna — who has played in England, Sweden and US — but played her club football with state league club South Melbourne this season as part of a plan to extend her career.

At the other end of the spectrum, Elise Kellond-Knight, playing with table-topping German club Turbine Potsdam, has enjoyed a pre-season playing against European heavyweights Arsenal and Paris St Germain.

“To get a bit of exposure against elite European clubs, I’ve really enjoyed that,” she said.

“In the two years I’ve been there it’s been a rollercoaster with good times and bad ... but I feel like I’m developing and learning. That’s why I’ve stayed.”

Club commitments are likely to rule out Kellond-Knight from the coming W-League season but Gorry will be back with Brisbane Roar. Steph Catley will also return home to captain Melbourne City after her season with Orlando Pride ends.

Catley is one of five US-based Matildas, led by goalscoring wonder Sam Kerr. Her stint at the Pride has also allowed her to get the low-down on this week’s opponents.

Three of Brazil’s squad, including five-time world player of the year Marta, are part of the title-chasing Pride. “Marta is an incredible player and really hard to mark. Fortunately training with her so I know what’s coming,” Catley said.

AAP