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Six years after she last appeared in the green and gold for the Matildas, Michelle Heyman etched her name into the history books with her shock retirement comeback.
The 35-year-old’s 73rd minute goal helped the Matildas to a 3-0 victory over Uzbekistan in the AFC Women’s Olympic Qualifying tournament, as the Paris 2024 dream remains well alive.
The Matildas shook off freezing conditions at Bunyodkor Stadium in Uzbekistan to take the commanding victory, with superstar Mary Fowler’s late goal, followed by Caitlin Foord’s, icing the victory.
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It was pure magic from Canberra United striker Heyman, who, after just seven minutes on the pitch, handed the Matildas a crucial lead, heading a goal into the net.
Heyman’s goal, followed by Fowler and Foord’s scintillating finish, combined for a 12 minute blitz late in the match.
“I am so happy. It’s nice to be back playing with the girls,” Heyman said post match.
“It’s what I wanted and I’m so happy to get it done.”
Former Australian footballer Andy Harper heaped praise on Heyman, who looked comfortable returning to the big time.
“It’s terrific to see Michelle back doing her thing,” Harper said on Paramount post match.
Harper declared that Heyman’s addition also gives Fowler a fresh licence to in front of goal.
“That frees up Mary Fowler to find some more freedom and flow,” he said.
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Heyman got a shock call-up from Australian coach Tony Gustavsson for the team’s Olympic qualifiers.
Heyman revealed a stigma around mental health forced her to retire from Matildas duties in 2019, before making her comeback as a result of a serious knee injury to Sam Kerr which, ironically, is the same way she earned a debut in 2010.
The victory wasn’t easy, but the side’s second half made up for their sluggish start in two degree conditions.
“The shooting boots weren’t on tonight … but as the game was unfolding, there was never any doubt that the team was going to prevail,” Harper said.
With the second leg against Uzbekistan set for Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium next Wednesday, Heyman’s new found confidence may be the inspiration her teammates need to qualify for Paris 2024.
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