Tony Gustavsson has resigned as Australia’s head coach after pulling out of the Olympics

Admin August 1, 2024

0 0 1 minute read

Tony Gustavsson has resigned as Australia’s head coach after pulling out of the Olympics

Australia women’s coach Tony Gustavsson has stepped down following an early exit from the women’s soccer competition at the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

The Matildas finished third in Group B behind the USA and Germany, while results elsewhere meant they failed to progress as one of the two third-placed teams.

Australia started their Olympic campaign with a heavy 3-0 defeat to Germany last week, but that was followed by a 6-5 final victory over Zambia at the weekend.

Gustavsson’s team had to go all out in their final game against the USA on Wednesday night. Trinity Rodman and Korbin Albert gave Emma Hayes’ side the luxury of a 2-0 lead going into the final stages of the match, although Alanna Kennedy pulled a goal back for Australia in stoppage time.

However, it was too little, too late for the Matildas as their elimination was soon confirmed. Gustavsson then told the players about his departure following the defeat in Marseille.

“It has been a great honor to be able to coach the Matildas for the past four years,” said Gustavsson in a statement. “This trip with the team has had many wonderful moments and memories that I will treasure.”

The Swede took charge of Australia in 2020 and guided the team to the semi-finals of the World Cup 12 months ago in the domestic competition. Despite links elsewhere, including the USWNT, Gustavsson has opted to see out the final year of his contract, but that will not be extended as the Matildas now prepare for a new season.