Tony Gustavsson has left his role as head coach of the Australia Women’s national team following their group-stage exit at the Olympics.
Australia came third in Group B at the Games but were the worst third-place finisher behind Colombia and Brazil and therefore did not qualify for the quarterfinals.
Australia needed to avoid defeat against the United States in their final group game on Wednesday to progress to the knockouts but suffered a 2-1 loss. They had previously lost 3-0 to Germany and beaten Zambia 6-5.
“This outcome is undoubtedly disappointing for the team, the fans, and the entire Australian football community,” a Football Australia statement read. “The team’s objective was to improve on the previous fourth-place finish at Tokyo 2020, and while this Olympic campaign did not unfold as hoped, Football Australia remain immensely proud of the dedication and hard work displayed by the Matildas throughout the qualification period and the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament.”
Football Australia added that Gustavsson, who has left by mutual consent following the end of his contract, addressed the players and staff following the defeat by the USWNT to say his goodbyes and wish them luck. The 50-year-old Swede took charge of the team four years ago, guiding them to…
