The CommBank Matildas have concluded their SheBelieves Cup campaign with a disappointing 2-1 loss to Colombia, marking the team's third consecutive defeat. This match, held at Snapdragon Stadium, leaves Australia at the bottom of their group, raising concerns just one year before they are set to host the Women's Asian Cup.
Colombia began the match aggressively, putting pressure on Australia's defense from the outset. Within the first ten minutes, young star Linda Caicedo forced Matildas goalkeeper Teagan Micah to make a brilliant save, foreshadowing the challenges Australia would face. Just minutes later, Wendy Bonilla capitalized on the momentum built from early Colombian attacks, scoring the first goal of the match. After receiving the ball following an impressive team move, Bonilla's shot hit the inside of the post before finding its way to the back of the net, putting Colombia up 1-0.
Though initially struggling, the Matildas began to create significant attacking opportunities as the first half progressed. Michelle Heyman and Kyra Cooney-Cross tested Colombia's defense, with Heyman nearly converting from a Steph Catley corner. But Australia’s promising attacks were not enough to equalize before halftime.
After the break, Interim Head Coach Tom Sermanni made strategic substitutions, bringing on Natasha Prior and Caitlin Foord. These changes appeared to inject fresh energy as the team looked for the equalizing goal. Their efforts bore fruit when Hayley Raso scored to level the match at 1-1. Receiving a well-placed pass from Mary Fowler, Raso skillfully maneuvered around Colombia’s defenders before finishing with precision.
But the joy was short-lived for the Matildas, as just four minutes later, Colombia reclaimed the lead when Catalina Usme delivered a shot from outside the penalty area. A cruel deflection helped the ball evade Micah, restoring Colombia's advantage at 2-1. Despite their efforts to find another equalizer, Australia was unable to breach Colombia’s defense, leading to their defeat.
This loss marks the first time the Matildas have dropped three consecutive matches since 2021, when they lost to Germany, the Netherlands, and Denmark. The back-to-back defeats against Japan and the USA preceding this match added to the mounting pressure on the team.
The performance left many fans and analysts questioning the team’s readiness, especially with the Women's Asian Cup on the horizon. The Matildas, once seen as formidable opponents on the global stage, will need to regroup and address their shortcomings as they look forward to upcoming matches.
Attention now shifts to the Matildas' home series against the Republic of Korea, scheduled for early April 2025. The first match will take place on April 4 at Allianz Stadium, with the second match following on April 7 at McDonald Jones Stadium. These fixtures will offer Australia the opportunity to redeem themselves and build confidence before the Asian Cup.