Goalkeeper Lydia Williams is set to play her final match on home soil when the Matildas take on China at Accor Stadium on Monday. The team aims for a victory to give Williams, Australia’s longest-serving football player, a fitting send-off as she concludes her 19-year international career.
A Career Spanning Almost Two Decades
Williams has had an illustrious career, representing Australia in five World Cups, six AFC Women’s Asian Cups, including the 2010 title win, and two Olympic Games. The 35-year-old Melbourne Victory goalkeeper will retire after the Paris Games, set to start in late July, marking the end of her remarkable journey in green and gold.
The Final Match
The Matildas are eager to secure a win against China to honor Williams’ contribution to the team. The first match of their two-game series ended in a 1-1 draw on Friday in Adelaide. Monday’s match in Sydney is expected to be a full-throttle effort by the team to ensure a memorable farewell for Williams.
Reflecting on Her Career
Speaking on Sunday, Williams described her final home match as a “closing of the circle.” She shared her thoughts on her career and the emotions surrounding her retirement. “You don’t really get much time as an athlete to have hindsight,” Williams said. “You have to move on from tournament to tournament, from club season to club season. Over the last few months, I’ve been able to have that recollection and reflection on my career. It’s definitely going to be really emotional. I’m just really excited to share one more final moment with the team on the pitch.”
The Decision to Retire
After more than 100 appearances for Australia, Williams explained that the decision to retire came naturally. She acknowledged the emergence of West Ham United star Mackenzie Arnold as the preferred goalkeeper under coach Tony Gustavsson. Williams embraced her role as a mentor to rising stars such as Teagan Micah and Jada Whyman.
“It’s been a process of a couple of years,” Williams said. “My body definitely was finding it a bit hard to back up, and credit to Mac (Arnold), obviously she’s been in great form, Teagan too. Realising that and knowing that you had to change your mindset into what your role was turning into was a challenge. Throughout that process, it was a lot of internal dialogue, but I never felt any disrespect, only support from Tony.”
A Special Farewell
Williams expressed gratitude for the opportunity to have her final match on home soil. She praised coach Tony Gustavsson for his support and the decision to honor her in this way. “Now being able to be sent off on home soil – that was really important for him (Gustavsson) to make that decision. It could have been in a completely different way,” Williams noted.
Looking Ahead
As Williams prepares for her final home game, the Matildas are focused on delivering a performance worthy of her legacy. The match against China is not just a chance to win but also an opportunity to celebrate the career of a player who has been a role model for many.
Williams’ journey from a young player looking for role models to becoming one herself is a testament to her dedication and impact on Australian football. As she steps onto the field for one last time at home, fans and teammates alike will be cheering her on, celebrating a career that has inspired many and left an indelible mark on the sport.