In the world of sport, there are moments that transcend passed the boundaries of competition, evoking emotions and impacting soceity more profound than the final results on the pitch. Australia, a nation familiar with the power of such moments, found itself at a crossroads of hope and contemplation as the FIFA Women's World Cup semifinal unfolded on a brisk Wednesday evening in Sydney. Sam Kerr's breathtaking strike, a stroke of genius, momentarily illuminated the dream of a triumphant home World Cup. Yet, in the end, it was England's unyielding experience and determination that left the Matildas contemplating their path forward.
In this crucible of footballing fervor, the Matildas demonstrated the tenacity and resolve that have endeared them to a nation. But beyond the confines of the field, another contest was underway: a battle for recognition, resources, and the enduring legacy of women's football.
"We are there, we're right there," sighed a dejected Sam Kerr, her words resonating with a mix of ambition and exasperation. She, along with Steph Catley, articulated a sentiment shared by many: Australia possesses the potential to consistently challenge for international glory, but an inadequate funding model must undergo transformation.
Following Australia's loss in the Women's World Cup semifinal, Sam Kerr called for more funding for women's football in Australia. pic.twitter.com/OxduoceSkS
— espnW (@espnW) August 16, 2023
"The comparison to other sports isn't really good enough," Kerr eloquently remarked, casting light on the glaring disparities in financial backing between men's and women's sports. Her remarkable goal might have sent seismic ripples across the landscape, yet it's the aftershocks of change off the field that truly matter.
"The legacy is what you do off the pitch," she aptly asserted.
Steph Catley, the steadfast captain who epitomized resilience, acknowledged the heartening appetite for football in Australia. "People are interested. The numbers are there. Kids are playing. People want to be watching the sport," she affirmed, underscoring the untapped potential awaiting a more substantial investment.
Australia's coach, Tony Gustavsson, bore the weight of defeat, yet his gaze remained fixed on a broader vista. "This is not the end of something," he declared resolutely.
"This needs to be the start of something. And with that comes money as well." His words resonated like a clarion call, urging a sport teetering on the brink of transformation to take its stride.
Sarina Wiegman, the architect of England's ascent, echoed this sentiment. She implored Australia to seize the moment, not only in terms of on-field prowess, but in how the game is nurtured from its grassroots. Her vision spanned from young boys and girls on fields of dreams to the professional game that beckons them.
Sarina. Weigman.
Weigman has become the FIRST manager in HISTORY to lead TWO different nations to a World Cup final. 👏🏼
Since the quarter-finals she's been the only female coach left in this #FIFAWomensWorldCup.
She loves a FINAL!
#Lionesses#FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/k7E843nLfI— Her Sport (@HerSportDotIE) August 16, 2023
Yet, as the dust settles on this enthralling chapter of the Women's World Cup, the Matildas' departure serves as a stark reminder of the lingering disparity in resources. England's journey to the final has been paved with investment and professionalism, a trajectory that Australia aspires to emulate. The gap between aspiration and realization is measured in more than just goals; it's about carving a legacy that will stand the test of time.
Australia's hopes may have dimmed under the glare of that fateful evening's lights, but an iridescent optimism lingers. The World Cup, a stage for showcasing talent and fortitude, has underscored the potential of women's football. The journey is far from its end, the final whistle a mere pause in the grand narrative. The time for investment, for transformation, for the elevation of women's football in Australia but also across the world, is now.
Incredible figures.
Last night, the Matildas were the most watched TV program in Australia ... since 2001.
And it smashed the record for biggest streaming event ever in Australia.
Wild 🔥💪 #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/yGdQk8a4MV— 7Sport (@7Sport) August 17, 2023
