There are comebacks and then there are the extraordinary fightbacks, just like the one the CommBank Matildas completed to keep their medal hopes alive at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
From the jaws of defeat and 5-2 down against Zambia after 56 minutes, the CommBank Matildas somehow rallied to stun the African nation 6-5 in unforgettable scenes on Sunday (Monday AEST).
Canberra United and A-Leagues legend Michelle Heyman completed the stunning comeback with her 90th-minute winner at Allianz Riviera Stadium, where Australia bounced back from their 3-0 first-up loss to Germany.
NEW BOSS: Perth Glory appoint Liberty A-League head coach
“We gave it our all and we never gave up. We want that medal,” super-sub Heyman told Channel 9 afterwards.
“I just wanted to get on that field and give it my all. I really want that medal, and I’ll do anything to bring it home. I’m just so proud to be part of it.”
Zambia hit the front inside a minute before Alanna Kennedy’s header restored parity six minutes later.
The CommBank Matildas went into half-time trailing 4-2 after Hayley Raso’s strike had reduced the deficit.
Zambia made it 5-2 11 minutes into the second half before Tony Gustavsson’s Australia staged their fightback.
An own goal two minutes later set the ball rolling as Steph Catley found the back of the net just past the hour mark to claw the CommBank Matildas within a goal of Zambia.
Catley then converted a 78th-minute penalty to equaliser as Heyman came off the bench to bag the incredible winner at the death.
“We just needed to score more than them tonight – and we did,” said Gustavsson.
Next up for the CommBank Matildas is a blockbuster showdown with the United States.
LOCKED IN! Dates announced for 2024-25 A-Leagues season
UNITE ROUND LAUNCHED FOR 2024-25: Everything you need to know
UNITE ROUND 2024-25: What’s new this season?
FULL FIXTURE: Who your team is up against in Unite Round
