We’d like to say it looked easy, but the Olympics showdown between Zambia and The Matildas on Monday morning was the epitome of a nail-biter. In fact, we’re pretty sure no one watching even has nails anymore.
The final score was 6-5, to the Matildas, despite the The Matildas failing to lead until the final moments. An honourable mention must go to the brilliant performance of Zambian striker Barbra Banda, who scored a hat-trick, her third in Olympic history, including a mind blowing strike after just 40 seconds.
But despite trailing 5-3 with just 25 minutes left on Sunday, The Matildas put in motion a sensational comeback to earn a wild victory and maintain their Olympic dreams.
With the Zambian defence clearly fatigued, the Matildas capitalised with two late goals from captain Steph Catley, a strike from Alanna Kennedy, a header from Hayley Raso and a bit of dumb luck when Zambian keeper Ngambo Musole helped deliver an own goal.
But it was 36-year-old Michelle Heyman off the bench who ultimately clinched it all.
With 90 minutes on the clock she slotted home past Musole, to score a perfect goal in the corner.
Coach Tony Gustavsson punched the air, and with that it was over.
And while The Matildas are looking anything but steady and stable in their first days of The Olympics, there’s little doubt that they’re playing with heart. Even a two-goal deficit, won’t make them lie down.