After an electric 3-1 win over host nation Costa Rica, Young Matildas' head coach Leah Blayney spoke to media as the team continue their FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup campaign against Brazil on Sunday.
"The group's pulled up really, really well. We had a good recovery day yesterday and today we're training out of the stadium we're going to play at tomorrow. Everybody's just excited to get back out there and put on that national team jersey," Blayney said at the pre-match press conference.
After waiting nearly 6000 days since their last World Cup game, the Young Matildas made sure to celebrate such a historic return, but all eyes are now set on taking on their next opponent.
"It was an extremely special occasion for us, so we definitely allowed the girls to enjoy the moment, everybody was pretty excited, but by the next morning, we had definitely turned our attention towards Brazil."
Blayney was then asked how she balances being able to both play for a positive result, while also ensuring opportunities are given to each of these young players. She said that between the depth and fitness of her squad, it hasn't been a concern.
"We've got a resilient group of players. They're durable and their fitness is at a good level where they can play adequate match minutes back-to-back," she said.
"It's also important that players who deserve to be on the field, get that opportunity as well. As you saw in the last game, we used all of our substitutions, because all of those players deserved to be out there, helping us win the game."
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MATCH REPORT: Young Matildas start FIFA U20 WWC campaign with a win
With Brazil being the South American U20 Champions, the Young Matildas will have their work cut out for them on Sunday. Blayney explained that although they are aware of their opponents' strengths, the Aussie team are going into the match with belief and confidence.
"We're definitely sticking to our game plan and the girls are going into the match with that belief in themselves. We know we can play some good football, we're fully aware of our opponent and what they bring to the table, and it's just another really exciting opportunity for our youth players to be on the world stage," she said.
"Tactically we will look to hurt Brazil in certain areas that we know aren't their strengths, but in terms of our principles, being on the front foot and dominating the game with the ball, you'll definitely see that again by the Young Matildas."
Young Matildas captain Sheridan Gallagher heads the leadership group that includes Paige Zois, Sarah Hunter, Sally James and Bryleeh Henry. Blayney says that in these players, are the perfect mix to show who the Young Matildas are and what they play for.
"The players in our leadership group have been tremendous. We have a range of personalities that I think are a true reflection of this group as a whole. In terms of them having to stand up when things are difficult, they've done that, and they've led by example," she said.
"In terms of how they lead off the field, they're also fantastic. They run their own team bonding and everybody really just relates to each other on whatever level it might be. It's just a really good, strong group that's led and driven by this leadership group."
