INSANE: 4 | Vintage Vibes

Matildas rise to a grand occasion but are left to rue the goal that never came

Australia had Japan on the back foot for long periods but a flurry of shots were scuffed, saved and blocked in a narrow Women’s Asian Cup final defeat

The Guardian - AU · Mar 21

The end? Coach feels Matildas era has only just begun

Joe Montemurro wants the Matildas to use their Women's Asian Cup final loss to Japan as a springboard to more success.

AAP · Mar 21

Kennedy's 'sad' admission as Matildas fall short

Alanna Kennedy is adamant the Matildas can lick their wounds from their Asian Cup final defeat and rebound at next year's World Cup.

AAP · Mar 21

‘We need to believe’: Matildas embrace underdogs tag for last shot at home glory in Women’s Asian Cup

Time is running out for the Australia team led by captain Sam Kerr to win a major trophy as they prepare to meet a red-hot Japan in the final on Saturday

The Guardian - AU · Mar 20

Matildas dismiss Kerr concern amid no-show, knee scare

Joe Montemurro is adamant Sam Kerr is fit for the Women's Asian Cup final despite the captain's pre-match press conference absence and a heavily-bandaged knee.

AAP · Mar 20

Bees, flies, flowers: Japan coach's Asian Cup verdict

Nils Nielsen has drawn on some colourful analogies to discuss the difference between Japan and Australia's varied Women's Asian Cup form.

AAP · Mar 20

‘It’s 50-50’: coaches dodge ‘favourites’ question before Matildas meet Japan in Women’s Asian Cup final

The Matildas are either ‘shit’ or ‘honey’ according to Japan coach Nils Nielsen, who evaded a question on whether his side are favourites in a bemusing press conference

The Guardian - AU · Mar 20

Record crowds, empty seats and the Matildas in a dream final: has the Women’s Asian Cup been a success?

Tournament organisers point to strong TV audiences and reaching a wider range of fans even as Australia have failed to sell out matches on home soil

The Guardian - AU · Mar 19

On-song North Korea seal long-awaited World Cup return

A hat-trick from Hong Song-Ok in a dominant 4-0 defeat of Taiwan has ensured North Korea will return to the World Cup despite their early Asian Cup exit.

AAP · Mar 19

Japan’s ruthless streak poses fresh challenge for rising Matildas in Women’s Asian Cup final

The world No 6 team have scored 28 goals and conceded just one, starting Saturday’s final against hosts Australia as clear favourites

The Guardian - AU · Mar 19