Melbourne City Captain Rebekah Stott has reflected on the importance of the AFC Women’s Champions League as her side prepare for Wednesday night’s Semi-Final in Wuhan, China.
City will take on South Korea’s Hyundai Steel Red Angels at the Wuhan Sports Centre Stadium for a place in the inaugural AFC Women’s Champions League Final.
Ahead of the huge match-up, Stott spoke to the media in Wuhan. Read the skipper’s pre-match thoughts below.
A HISTORIC MOMENT
“We’re incredibly excited to be here, to participate in the first ever AFC Women’s Champions League Semi-Finals is a special moment for us as players and as a Club, and we want to make Australia proud.
“There’s something extra special about champions league football, we’re here with Asia’s best and we’re looking forward to giving it our best. To have this tournament is not only important to showcase the best of Women’s football in Asia, but also to inspire the next generation of boys and girls to play the game.”
FACING ASIA’S BEST
“We know that the Red Angels are a really strong side, they have a lot of national team players in their squad. They’re extremely technical and aggressive, and we know it’s going to be a tough challenge, but it’s one we’re looking forward to.
“We’ve been working hard as a team, both analysing their strengths and improving our game, and we’ll go out there and do our best to qualify for the final.”
ADAPTING TO THE HEAT OF WUHAN
“The hospitality here in Wuhan has been wonderful, we’ve been given everything we need to acclimatise as quickly as possible after the long flight and the hot and humid conditions, and we can’t wait for the game.
“Since arriving, we’ve had three sessions on the grass and we’re adapting to the conditions as quickly as possible. We will make sure we recover well, hydrate well and be ready to go on Wednesday night.”
Fixture Details
AFC Women’s Champions League: Semi-Final 2
Hyundai Steel Red Angels v Melbourne City FC
Wuhan Sports Centre Stadium, Wuhan, China
Wednesday 21 May, 10:00pm KO (AEST)
Broadcast live and free via 10play.
