As the tournament’s group stage comes to a close, it enters into the round 16. What perfect time to reflect on some of the best quotes from this week.
Brazil’s legend Marta became the first player to reach 17 World Cup goals, bettering German star Miroslav Klose’s 16. The phenomenal athlete made her first World Cup appearance in 2003 at 17: “It’s one more detail written in the history of women’s football. I am honoured, but there’s more to do at this tournament.”
Australia’s captain Sam Kerr is chasing another milestone after she became the first player for her country to score four goals in a World Cup: “I’m coming for Tim Cahill’s record.”
Chile’s Javiera Toro explains how much it means to be in France after they qualified by finishing runners-up in the 2018 Copa América Femenina: “I think qualifying for our first World Cup is a hugely significant event for our country. It can open doors for women’s football in Chile.”
Argentina are too at their first World Cup. Seventeen-year-old forward Dalila Ippolito made her debut against Scotland and told herself to stick to what she knows: “Carlos [Borrello – head coach] told me to come in and have fun. I went in and thought I’d face it the way I did in the neighbourhood versus boys. It’s hard, but we still have a chance.”
Scotland’s Erin Cuthbert was awarded ‘Player of the Match’ after she scored her first World Cup goal in the draw against Argentina. She celebrated by kissing a picture of herself as a child that her father gave her, to remind herself of where she started: “Don’t give up on your dreams, I’ve achieved mine.”
England’s Ellen White scored the only two goals in the match against Japan to book their place in the Round 16. She was also awarded ‘Player of the Match’: “Scoring and contributing for my country is a dream come true.”
Japan’s number nine Yuika Sugasawa plays for Urawa Reds and is hoping to inspire the next generation: “I want us to make kids dream of being a part of the national team.”
Italy’s 25-year-old defender Elena Linari was born in Fiesole, Tuscany, and is aiming to make everyone at home proud: “We’re giving hope to many Italian girls.”
