Matildas vs Brazil: What we learned as vocal crowd provide an edge and Network 10 steps up a gear

Josh Thomas

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Matildas vs Brazil: What we learned as vocal crowd provide an edge and Network 10 steps up a gear image

It was a successful return to Australia for the Matildas as they claimed a 3-1 win over Brazil on Saturday night.

In an entertaining clash from start to finish, a crowd of 15,000 relished every minute as the Matildas produced in front of goal but remained vulnerable at the back. 

Elsewhere, Network 10's coverage earned some big praise and a concussion incident needed to be dealt with better. 

Here's what we learned from the match...

Fired up Matildas ride their luck as home crowd plays their part

Playing at home again, the Matildas were clearly pumped up for this game and were nearly caught out early with Alanna Kennedy lucky not to see red after stopping a Brazil break. 

Tony Gustavsson's decision to play with three at the back left Australia vulnerable as Matildas often poured forward in search of a celebratory goal. 

While it would eventually come through Clare Polkinghorne, they did ride their luck in defence numerous times with Lydia Williams making a great save early in the second half. 

You couldn't blame the Matildas for getting lost in the moment at times with a vocal home crowd welcoming them home with open arms and loudly cheering on every incursion forward. 

With Australia coming into the game on the back of three straight defeats, it's safe to say their supporters certainly played a part in helping them get back on track. 

A shout out also to Brazil's fans, who certainly made themselves heard throughout the contest.

After months of lockdown, there's nothing quite like watching live football again. 




Network 10 shows the Matildas they mean business

While Australian football's new broadcaster has already covered the Matildas admirably, they really stepped up for this game as they celebrated the team's return home.

From signing up former Fox Sports presenter Tara Rushton to excellent pre-game coverage, Network 10 gave the team the in-depth coverage they deserve. 

Add Simon Hill in commentary and a lack of annoying ads during the games and it seems the Matildas have found the perfect home to grow their fan base even larger. 







Concussion handling called into question

Brazilian goalkeeper Leticia Izidoro copped a heavy knee to the head after just 10 minutes but after staying down for treatment was somehow allowed to play on. 

At times in the first half, she could be seen holding her head with the accidental contact from Tameka Yallop undoubtedly doing some damage. 

If this was the NRL, there would have been no chance of the player continuing and those same standards should have been applied here. 




Josh Thomas