Melbourne City defender Naomi Chinnama scored a late winner to seal a memorable 2-1 come-from-behind win in the Young Matildas opening game at the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup in Uzbekistan.
Chinnama ensured the Young Matildas would record a remarkable victory over two-time champions, South Korea, when she rifled the ball into the back of the net following a late set piece.
In incredibly difficult conditions due to heavy snow fall, South Korea took a first-half lead when Jeon Yugyeong found the back of the net, although Leah Blayney’s side hit back in the second when Peta Trimis found an equaliser before Chinnama’s winner.
City young gun, Daniela Galic, was named in the starting XI, and was an ever-dangerous threat to Korea’s defence, forcing a sharp save from their keeper. Tijan McKenna was an unused substitute in the group stage fixture.
Australia’s opening game win is an important one, not only for their chances of progression in the competition, but also for the team’s hopes of FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualification.
If the Young Matildas are to finish first or second in their group, they will secure a Semi Final spot at the Asian Cup and qualify for this year’s World Cup.
The Young Matildas will now turn their attention to hosts Uzbekistan, who they face on Wednesday in Tashkent.
Image Credit: Football Australia
MATCH DETAILS
Young Matildas v Uzbekistan
Date: Wednesday 6 March
Kick-off: 4:00pm (Local), 10:00pm AEDT
Venue: Jar Stadium, Uzbekistan
Broadcast: 10Play
Young Matildas v Chinese Taipei
Date: Saturday 9 March
Kick-off: 1:00pm (Local), 7:00pm AEDT
Venue: Do’stlik Stadium, Uzbekistan
Broadcast: 10Play
