Matildas' 2010 Asian Cup Triumph: A Legacy of Grit

0:00On March 6, here's the latest out of Adelaide. Back in 2010, the Matilda's claim by Australia's first major international trophy by winning the women's Asian Cup. Coach Tom Sermanny led an underdog squad hit hard by injuries through a grueling tournament in China. It marked a huge breakthrough for women's soccer down under. The switch to Asia's Confederation years earlier ramped up the challenge for the Matilda's, unlike the men who found easier World Cup pass. This event doubled as a qualifier, with only the top three teams earning spots at the 2011 tournament. Making the final became their key goal over just winning it. Players showed unbreakable spirit, even giving Sermania a makeover by dying his hair and shaving his mustache after securing World Cup qualification. Squad members like Heather Garriak recall a deep belief they could compete with Asia's powerhouses. 16-year-old Sam Kerr burst onto the scene with a decisive semi-final goal against Japan. In the final against North Korea, Heavy Rain turned the battered pitch into a mud pit.

1:04The Matilda's push to penalties were Kai-Assignment nailed the winner with calm precision. It kept a gritty run past top teams like Japan. 16 years later, that triumph fueled the Matilda's never-say-die attitude and skyrocketed their fame. Now a cultural force, with massive crowds, they're contesting the latest Asian Cup on a $50 million budget across major cities, Hungary for A. Second Crown to build on that legacy. This episode is supported by our sponsor. Head in, sound on, lights out. That is the routine. S-O-L-L-I-SOLI-PILO.com