The Matildas have copped a scare 24 hours out from their last group game at the Asian Cup after midfielder Tameka Yallop tested positive for COVID-19.
Yallop’s positive result will rule her out of two games – Australia’s third and final Group B match against Thailand at 1am on Friday morning (AEDT) and also their quarter-final on Sunday, which will be against either Japan or South Korea.
Football Australia sent out a release confirming the news, while other players and staff have returned negative tests.
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The threat of a COVID-19 outbreak within the team could cost the Australians a chance of progressing at the tournament, with host nation India forced out of the competition following an outbreak that prevented them from naming the minimum 13 players for a match.
Yallop came off the bench to score a goal in Australia’s 18-0 rout of Indonesia, and started in the 4-0 win over the Philippines.
Depth-wise the Matildas should have adequate talent in midfield to account for her absence against Thailand and in the quarter-final.
The last time the Matildas played Thailand was at the Asian Cup in 2018, where the Thais almost caused a boilover in their semi-final when it finished 2-2 after extra time.
“I think it’s important that we don’t underestimate them,” defender Alanna Kennedy said.
“Obviously, it was a lesson learned last time around. I think from the last couple of games we are looking to carry the same mentality and focus into this game and hopeful come out with a strong performance and a win.”
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