June 13, 2019 – Croatians are definitely being well represented in France this summer by the Croatian lead Australian Women’s National Team. Ante Miličić is the team’s head coach and he is the son of Croatian immigrants. Miličić grew up in Strathfield, which is located in Sydney’s West and was raised by his father following the unfortunate death of his mother when he was only 17. Following disappointing appearances by the women’s side, the Australian Soccer Federation decided that it was time for a change in February of this year. Ante was given the honor of leading the world’s #6 FIFA ranked team, until the conclusion of the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
In their opening game, Australia lost a heartbreaking match in the 95th minute to FIFA ranked #15 Italy. However, they turned their attention to #10 FIFA ranked Brazil lead by World Cup legend Marta. Trailing 2-0 38 minutes into the match, the Matildas responded in the 46th minute right before halftime with a goal from Caitlin Foord to make it 2-1. They used the first half late goal to motivate them and score a second goal in the 58th minute from Chloe Logarzo, tying the game 2-2. Then, the Australians took the lead on a fortunate own goal by Brazil’s Monica that they would end up holding onto.
The win put the Aussies right back into the mix of things in group C as they await the outcome of Italy vs. Jamaica, which takes place June 14th at the Stade Auguste-Delaune II. The Aussies could have a great chance of advancing out of the group stages if they win their final group stage game. The Australians next game will be against Jamaica, and it will take place on June 18th at the Stade des Alpes. Despite the Croatian National Women’s Soccer Team not qualifying for the tournament, make sure to cheer on our fellow countryman Miličić as he leads his team!
Text by Thomas Mustać
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