SYDNEY: In the absence of regular skipper Sam Kerr, who is sidelined due to an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, Arsenal left back Steph Catley will lead Australia’s Matildas as captain during the final stage of the Paris Olympic qualifiers, confirmed coach Tony Gustavsson on Wednesday.
Despite Kerr’s absence, Gustavsson emphasized her continued importance to the team, expressing support for her recovery journey. With the focus squarely on qualifying for the Olympics, Gustavsson noted that Kerr’s absence presents an opportunity for other players, including 35-year-old Michelle Heyman, who has earned a recall to the squad based on her outstanding performance.
The upcoming two-legged tie against Uzbekistan will be crucial in determining Australia’s qualification for the Olympics, with the first leg scheduled in Tashkent on Feb. 24 and the return fixture to be hosted at Docklands Stadium in Melbourne four days later.
