- Mark Bosnich believes Matildas players appear out of position
- Recommends that the team should focus on getting the ball to Mary Fowler
- Matildas are set to face Zambia next on Monday morning
Australian football icon Mark Bosnich asserts that the Matildas need to address a significant issue following their disappointing 3-0 defeat to Germany, which has nearly derailed their quest for Olympic gold.
The Australians faced a thorough outclassing by the football powerhouse during a stifling and discouraging match in southern France.
As World Cup semi-finalists aiming for their first Olympic medal, they struggled to find their rhythm against the seasoned former champions in Marseille, just a day before the opening ceremony in Paris, located 750 km away.
Bosnich expressed that the Matildas players appeared to be misplaced in their buildup play.
‘This has been a major issue for me,’ he remarked on Stan Sport’s Olympics Daily show.
‘Ideally, players should occupy positions where they don’t even need to look up if they don’t want to, knowing someone will always be there.’
‘This situation occurred repeatedly.’
Bosnich pointed out that there were too many players gathered around the ball.
Mark Bosnich indicates the Matildas need to address a significant issue ahead of their next match
Bosnich contends that Mary Fowler is the top player in the team and deserves better opportunities
‘When players are making runs towards the ball, others should create some space and offer an option,’ he commented.
‘This is something they need to resolve quickly. I’m not suggesting a complete overhaul, but it needs to happen soon.’
The Matildas will meet Zambia next in a crucial match, and Bosnich believes the team must prioritize building around Mary Fowler.
‘The focus should be on recognizing who their standout player is,’ Bosnich stated.
‘In my view, that’s Mary Fowler, and they need to devise a strategy to get her the ball as early as possible in optimal positions so she has the time and space to perform … that’s the challenge.’
‘If they can address this issue, not only will they likely defeat Zambia, but they’ll also advance to the knockout stages and make a deep run.’
