US injuries aid Matildas ahead of Olympics soccer showdown

United States defender Tierna Davidson will not recover in time to face Australia in their Olympics 2024 women’s football clash at the Marseille Stadium on Thursday morning (AEST).

Also sidelined is Jaedyn Shaw, who is yet to play a single minute in the competition because of a leg injury.

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Davidson has been head coach Emma Hayes’ first choice at the heart of Team USA’s defence, but she had to come off early against Germany with a knee issue.

“She got hit in her leg,” Hayes said of Davidson’s injury after the game.

“Knee-on-knee situations can create a bit of swelling, so that swelling will keep her out of this game.”

Emily Sonnet came on as Davidson’s substitute and did a commendable job at blunting the German attack, so she can expect to start against Australia.

Do or die for Australia

The United States women have the luxury of approaching this match with relaxed nerves, having all but secured top spot in Group B with commanding victories over Zambia and Germany.

Australia, meanwhile, must leave the pitch with all three points to keep their Olympic women’s soccer campaign alive.

The Matildas kicked off their journey with a 3-0 loss to Germany and then produced a fairytale comeback to snatch a 6-5 win against Zambia.

Regardless, Steph Catley and company find themselves third in the table with three points to their name.

A draw would be sufficient if Germany lose to Zambia, but if the Nationalelf get the better of the Copper Queens, Australia must win against the USWNT to progress.

History doesn’t paint an optimistic picture for the Aussies, however, as they have managed to beat their US counterparts only once in their 34 previous meetings.

Olympics bookmakers have Australia slated as $6.50 outsiders to win this match, with a draw at $4.33 and the United States favoured at $1.50.

These teams met twice in the Tokyo Olympics three years ago, drawing 0-0 in the group stage before the US won a 4-3 thriller in the bronze medal match.

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