Matildas Star Hayley Raso Confident Ahead of Women's Asian Cup in Perth
Matildas winger Hayley Raso has boldly declared that the Australian women's football team is poised to "put on a show" at the upcoming Women's Asian Cup, embracing the high expectations and pressure of hosting a major tournament on home soil. Speaking to the media at Langley Park in Perth, Raso conveyed the squad's enthusiasm as they gear up for their opening match against The Philippines at Optus Stadium this Sunday.
Embracing Home Advantage and Pressure
Raso, who arrived early in Perth after a stint with German club Eintracht Frankfurt, drew parallels between this tournament and the memorable 2023 Women's World Cup. "It's similar, isn't it? It's a home tournament for us. It's something that we love, something that we thrive under," she said. Reflecting on the World Cup experience, Raso noted the overwhelming support from the Australian public, which she described as "so special" and still gives her goosebumps. While acknowledging the heightened expectations, she emphasized that the team relishes the pressure rather than feeling burdened by it.
Team Fitness and Confidence Boost
Amid concerns over key players' fitness, Raso provided reassuring updates. Captain Sam Kerr scored in Chelsea's recent Women's FA Cup victory, while Mary Fowler logged significant minutes in Manchester City's win. "You gain your confidence before you come into camp. It's pretty exciting for us to have been able to have done that right before we come in here," Raso remarked. This pre-tournament form has bolstered the team's confidence, ensuring all players are at their peak as they unite for the Asian Cup campaign.
Raso's Personal Journey and Adaptation
Since joining Eintracht Frankfurt in August, Raso has found the German league to be a conducive environment for growth. "The football is great, my club's great. I'm really enjoying the German league, and I feel like it's a place I can grow," she shared. Joking about swapping Germany's snow for Perth's sunshine, Raso highlighted the competitive nature of the league and her ongoing adaptation to the team's style. Her positive club experiences have translated into a focused mindset for the national team duties.
Preparations and Team Dynamics
With players gradually arriving in Perth, including Kerr's overnight landing, the Matildas are intensifying their preparations. Raso's early arrival and recent goal in a Europa Cup match underscore her readiness. The team's collective goal is clear: to leverage home support and deliver a standout performance that captivates fans nationwide. As Raso put it, "We want to put on a show, we want to do well and we're really excited to get playing again here in Australia." This sentiment echoes throughout the squad as they aim to make a significant impact in the tournament.
