Steph Catley’s recent Champions League victory has ignited a hunger for more silverware, not just at the club level but also with the Matildas. The Arsenal trio, including Caitlin Foord and Kyra Cooney-Cross, are still basking in the glory of their Women’s Champions League triumph over Barcelona. This taste of success has fueled Catley’s aspirations for Asian Cup glory with Australia, following strong showings in the Olympics and Women’s World Cup.
“Being at a club like Arsenal, I always believed we were capable of doing it, but actually doing it’s a whole other thing, and especially when you’re coming up against a team like Barcelona, sometimes it feels quite far away.”
Reflecting on the monumental achievement, Catley shared her ambitions of winning silverware with the Matildas, a long-held dream of hers. The experience has not only left her hungry for more but has also instilled a sense of belief in what is achievable both individually and as a team.
“It just gives you a little taste of what’s possible… winning silverware with the Matildas has always been top of my list.”
Returning home, Catley, Foord, and Cooney-Cross have been warmly welcomed by the Matildas camp, where they have been able to savor their success and share the joy with their teammates. The celebrations have been grand, with the trio enjoying the adulation of fans during parades and events.
“Something I’ve dreamed of my entire career, it’s the pinnacle of football and being able to do it alongside my two Aussies, and just being part of Arsenal and being that club in England to do it again, it’s very, very special.”
While the celebrations continue, the focus now shifts back to the field as the players prepare to face Argentina in a rematch. Despite the whirlwind of events and travel, Catley remains eager to return to action, emphasizing her readiness to play and contribute on the pitch.
“It’d be nice to get back on the field again. I’m not a very good sub. I don’t like sitting on the bench. I get a bit antsy, so I’m happy to play.”
As Catley, alongside her Arsenal teammates, transitions back to international duty with the Matildas, the experience gained from their recent triumph will undoubtedly serve as a source of motivation and inspiration. The taste of victory has not only fueled their hunger for success but has also showcased the heights they can achieve when united in pursuit of a common goal.
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