After two impressive victories, the Matildas took some time off to unwind at Perth’s City Beach on Monday. Led by captain Sam Kerr, the Australian women’s football team enjoyed a well-deserved break after their 8-0 win over the Philippines and a 2-0 victory against Iran during the Olympic qualifiers.
The team was seen relaxing in the sun and taking a dip in the ocean, soaking in the warm weather before their upcoming match against Taiwan. However, the absence of NRL star Nathan Cleary, rumored to be romantically linked with Matildas forward Mary Fowler, caught the attention of many onlookers.
Rumors about Fowler and Cleary have been circulating since their appearance together during Australia’s World Cup run earlier this year. Cleary, who plays for the Penrith Panthers, was seen attending Sunday night’s game in Perth, further fueling speculation about their relationship. Despite this, Cleary did not join the team at the beach, leaving fans to wonder about the status of their connection. While the spotlight has been on the supposed romance, the focus for the Matildas remains on their performance and preparation for the upcoming Olympic qualifiers.
Coach Tony Gustavsson has emphasized the importance of recovery and professionalism as the team faces a tight schedule. With just three days between their dominant win over the Philippines and their next match against Taiwan, Gustavsson has some decisions to make regarding player rotation. Although the Matildas have already secured their spot in the next stage of Olympic qualification, Gustavsson remains committed to keeping his top players sharp and ready for the challenges ahead, particularly as they prepare for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
As the Matildas continue their Olympic journey, their focus remains on the pitch, with key players like Kerr, Caitlin Foord, and Mary Fowler stepping up to ensure success. The team’s camaraderie and discipline, both on and off the field, will be vital as they navigate the demanding schedule ahead. With Gustavsson pushing his team to maintain peak form, the Matildas are gearing up for a crucial test on Wednesday, knowing that every game brings them one step closer to their Olympic dreams.
