Tony Gustavsson, the manager of Australia, has resigned “by mutual agreement” following the elimination of his women’s team in the group stage of a disappointing Olympic football tournament.
The Matildas finished third in Group B after suffering defeats against the United States and Germany.
Their only victory came in a thrilling 6-5 match against Zambia, who had taken a 5-2 lead early in the second half.
This single win was insufficient to advance Australia, as their goal difference was poorer than that of the third-place teams in other groups, such as Colombia and Brazil, both of whom moved on to the quarter-finals.
Gustavsson’s resignation follows less than a year after he led Australia to their highest ever finish in a Women’s World Cup, where they came in fourth during the 2023 tournament co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand.
“It has been a tremendous honor and privilege to serve as the head coach of the Matildas for the past four years,” Gustavsson expressed in a statement on Football Australia’s website., external
“This journey with the team has provided many unforgettable moments and memories that I will cherish forever.
“I extend my gratitude to the amazing players for allowing me to be a part of their journey, to my staff for their unwavering support, to Football Australia for believing in our vision for the team, to the Australian football community for their warm welcome, and to the Australian public for their remarkable support.
“Australian football will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will continue to follow and support your future successes.”
Australia suffered a 3-0 defeat to Germany on July 25 and lost 2-1 to the United States on Wednesday, with both matches played in Marseille.
Football Australia confirmed that the decision for Gustavsson’s departure was mutual, as the 50-year-old coach concluded his four-year contract.
