Matildas' loss to Sweden falls short in a World Cup that surpassed expectations | Kieran Pender


It is possible to revel in a fourth-place finish and still push for an even better future by asking difficult questions

These two things can both be true: the Matildas overachieved at this World Cup, and underachieved against Sweden on Saturday.

Australia’s fourth-placed finish at the World Cup following a magical month that enchanted a nation is better than anyone could have expected. Indeed, with the exception of the USA, it is the best-ever performance by a host country. Australians should rightly feel proud of these Matildas after a heroic World Cup run, in the face of sustained adversity – most notably Sam Kerr’s calf injury.

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