The Matildas stood on the shoulders of giants, then took Australian football to new heights.
That’s how coach Tony Gustavsson feels after leading his charges into Australia’s first-ever World Cup semi-final appearance with victory over France on penalties.
Gustavsson’s tenure has been questioned at many difficult forks in the road, especially after last year’s disastrous Asian Cup quarter-final exit.
He would have been entitled to feel vindicated after Saturday night’s triumph, but instead of taking a victory lap, turned the focus elsewhere, giving credit to those who have walked before him.
“It’s obviously difficult when you’re emotional now to distance yourself and see it that way,” he said.
“But I think that’s why I teared up a lot on the field after the game.
“Because I know how much this means to so many people.
“When you want to achieve something great and when the ‘why’ is bigger than 90-minute football and bigger than sport, we need to remember all the hard work that all of you and all of the alumnis, all of the brave woman that walked this path way, did way before my time.
“And then I’m just a small part of this.
“It’s difficult to put in words now but I’m just so happy for so many other people than myself right now and that’s why I tear up because I know how much it means for so many.”
The scenes around – and en route to – Australia, have been astonishing, with support popping up from all corners.
Days out from a final-four clash with England at Stadium Australia, Gustavsson again stressed his charges had embraced a bigger picture.
“The players represent so much more than 90 minutes of football. All 224 alumnis were with us out there,” he said.
“All the little kids that this team will inspire, the next generation. And seeing the nation unite.
“The way we were sent off at the hotel today going to the stadium, the support we got when we arrived to the stadium, the support we got during the game.
“Everyone united around these players. I am probably one of the proudest and happiest coaches right now because I am so happy for other people.”
