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Australia’s Steph Catley remains upbeat about victory against Nigeria
By Wale Mustapha
Australia may have been dealt with a new set of injury setbacks heading to their second group game against Nigeria but captain Steph Catley remained optimistic of her side’s chances to claim victory.
The Aussies prosecuted their opening match against Ireland without their top striker, Sam Kerr who sustained a late calf injury that has also ruled him out of Falcons’ game.
The tournament co-host have received news of injuries sustained by forward Mary Fowler and defender Aivi Luik joining Sam Kerr on the sidelines.
However, Catley remained upbeat of her team’s depth in qualities to win the match against Nigeria.
“Morale is high, there’s not too much I need to do to be honest, I think everyone’s very focused, everyone knows we need to keep the morale high,” Catley told media.
“(Injuries) are not what you want ever in a tournament and, in particular, this tournament, as Australian players probably the biggest moment of our careers.
“But it’s football and it happens to every single footballer on the entire planet. It’s how the rest of the squad bounces back and performs in a high-pressure situation in the biggest games.”
Coach Tony Gustavsson remained hopeful of having the injured players back and better before the final game against Canada.
