The CommBank Matildas have assembled in Vancouver ahead of a two-match series against Canada, starting Friday local time (Saturday afternoon AEDT).
Teagan Micah spoke about the training environment in Canada and the strength of the goalkeeping union.
“It’s exciting to be here,” she said. “We’re all pumped to get back together as we always are. And yeah, I think it’s a bit colder than what we’re used to – but we’re good.”
The games are key for the CommBank Matildas' preparation for Olympic qualifying. The message from head coach Tony Gustavsson from the group has been to use these games against a top-ten nation to really hone in on the groundwork for a successful 2024.
The goalkeeper explained that reigning gold medalists in Canada present a difficult challenge. The CommBank Matildas will need to break down their sturdy defence while remaining wary of their attacking threats that include the retiring legend, Christine Sinclair.
“We just need to stay composed, but also just focus on our game because it’s big games for us to put in new learnings for us as well,” Micah said.
The 26-year-old signed for Liverpool just before the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023. She made her first league start on Sunday and began in the best possible fashion, a clean sheet and a 4-0 win for her side.
“I’m really enjoying it,” she explained. “It’s a very professional environment and definitely a step up to what I was used to so, I’m just really glad to be there and play for Liverpool Football Club. Can’t really go wrong, can I?”
“To be able to put on the jersey is something really special.”
Micah has overcome a number of challenges in the past twelve months, both personally and professionally, including a concussion that saw her miss six months of football leading up to the World Cup.
She now feels like she is in a good space for both club and country.
“It’s been a long time coming,” she explained. “I’ve been through a lot to be where I am, but I do really feel like I’m starting to enjoy football a bit more and get that back. I mean, [football] is just the best job in the world.
“I feel like I’ve put myself in challenging environments, both in the national team and also at club. I think when you do that and you really work and put your head down you can start to see the rewards for yourself, you can only really be happy for yourself really.”
For Micah, the most important thing for her game is that belief.
“I know the girls here back me and trust me, so yeah. [I’ll just] go out there, enjoy it, and hopefully get the win.”
Match Detail
Canada v CommBank Matildas
Date: Friday, 1 December 2023 (local) / Saturday, 2 December (AEDT)
Kick-off: 7.30pm PST (local) / 2.30pm (AEDT)
Venue: Starlight Stadium, Langford, BC
Broadcast: Network 10 and Paramount+
How to Watch
