The Matildas have never beaten Germany in a major international competition - and the key to breaking that drought will be the tactical growth of the team.
The Olympics will be the ultimate test. Tony Gustavsson has worked to add tactical depth to the group and to play in different ways and against different styles. Last year’s World Cup demonstrated the team’s capability to counter-attack with exceptional speed and skill.
Nonetheless, against teams that were less aggressive, question marks remained about their capacity to break down deeper defences without the aerial strength of Sam Kerr.
The recent friendly against Mexico, who press very high, enabled the team to work on their buildup through pressure, which will be needed against Germany and the USA in Paris. And the two matches against China were an exercise in patience and the principles of overcoming a counter-attacking team.
Finding the best position and role for Mary Fowler – specifically, when........