Naturally, the Australian football hierarchy is set for review following the Matildas’ shock Round of 16 exit at the Women’s World Cup.
Inquests are set to begin as to why this was the case and whether much can be done towards to ensure Australia does not fall behind in the development of women’s players.
While Australia may have jumped ahead of many European nations in women’s football, what Spain, Italy and Norway – who are all ranked considerably lower than the Matildas – have shown is they are catching up and doing so at a rapid pace.
Matilda and Optus Sport expert Amy Chapman says the growth of the W-League is a significant factor in harvesting Australia’s players but believes more needs to be done in enhancing player wellbeing.
“It’s wonderful to see how far the W-League has come I just would love a clearer path,” she said.
“I speak a lot about the well-being of the players whether that’d be physical, mental, the overload, confidence – in the men’s game at the highest level that is looked after by the clubs they’re an asset to the club.
“I think that’s where we want to head where your club is all round day-to-day football purpose and then you come together and get the best squads together and that’s where you get your [Matildas] depth.
“If the W-League and club football can grow and we can get enough can stay in the game and we create a bigger selection pool is how we move forward in my opinion.”
In addition to advocating for improvements in the W-League, Chapman says more players should look to Europe to play domestically and earn more experience in bigger matches.
The Matildas will shift their attention towards Tokyo 2020 where they will look to win Gold for the first time.
