The Westfield Matildas have arrived in Edmonton flying high ahead of their pivotal World Cup clash against Sweden on Wednesday morning (AEST).
Coach Alen Stajcic is set to have his entire squad at his disposal for the final group clash as the Matildas seek some atonement for bowing out against the Swedes in the Round of 16 at Germany four years ago.
Attacker Sam Kerr is recovering well from a malicious elbow to the face and forward Lisa De Vanna and defender Laura Alleway are also nearing full fitness.
Speaking after the Matildas 2-0 win over Nigeria on Saturday morning (AEST) Stajcic was buoyed by the way his side bounced back from a frustrating loss to USA.
MATCH REPORT: Simon stars as Matildas defeat feisty Nigeria
“It was obviously a tough game, a tough battle out there in the heat. Both sides had plenty of chances but we were more clinical and that’s what we weren’t the other day (against USA),” said Stajcic in the post-match press conference.
“We had quite good control of the game. We didn’t let Nigeria get in behind, we knew what their threats were. Apart from a few set pieces, I thought we controlled their speed and their key players quite well.”
Australia enters the final match day of their Group D in second spot, one point ahead of Sweden and one point behind group leaders USA.
The Matildas can still finish anywhere from first to fourth in their group, with the top teams assured of progressing to the knockout stage, while four third placed teams from the six groups will also qualify for the Round of 16.
The fact was certainly not lost on the Matildas coach who said his side would definitely be going for the win against the Swedes to ensure they finish as high as possible.
“There’s still a lot to be played in this group. We can finish top of the group if USA drop points, we can still finish second if we beat Sweden or possibly even draw that game.
“We can still finish third and we can still finish fourth if Nigeria beat the USA. Anything is possible in this group.
“That Nigerian team, anything can happen when you play them. They’re so spirited, good positive footballers and you just don’t know what to expect, they can produce anything.
“Everything is up for grabs still, so we’re not taking anything for granted. We have to put a good performance against Sweden and seal our spot in the next round.”
ANALYSIS: Matildas v Nigeria: 4 things we learnt
A Round of 16 clash against Brazil looms as the likely scenario if the Matildas maintain their second place in Group D.
MATCH REPORT: Brazil through to last 16
However the Aussies will first have to account for a Sweden side Stajcic rates as one of the best attacking countries in women’s football – and one that will be smarting after draws in their opening two matches.
"They’ve (Sweden) probably got four or five of the best players in attack in this World Cup. A bit like Nigeria, a very potent attacking line… we’re going to have our hands full again,” said Stajcic.
“Our defensive discipline is going to be tested and we’ll make sure we’re well organised and well-structured like we were today (against Nigeria).
“We know they’re a great attacking team. Nigeria gave them some problems defensively the other day so hopefully we can do that as well and come out with a win.”
