The Young Matildas’ run at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup has come to an end following a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Spain in Costa Rica.
The current European champions at this age level were clinical in front of goal with Julia Gabarro’s hat trick enough to send Spain to the knockouts and Australia back home.
Young Matildas’ head coach Leah Blayney made three changes to the starting line up which started both the games against Costa Rica and Brazil, with Abbey Lemon, Jessika Nash, and Charlie Rule earning starts.
It was a much brighter start for the Australians with Sally James called into action in the first minute, making an acrobatic save to deny Spain from a dream start.
In attack, the Young Matildas were able to press Spain’s defence and cause turnovers high up the pitch.
Bryleeh Henry had Australia’s opening chance of the game. She was allowed to run and dribble down the left flank before moving more centrally and fizzing a strike which was claimed by Adriana Nanclares.
