Sydney FC defender Servet Uzunlar says she feels more confident than ever, despite the Matildas unlucky defeat to the USA in their opening group game of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2015.
As one of the more experienced players in Head Coach Alen Stajcic’s squad, Uzunlar said having played at the 2011 tournament has allowed her to fully absorb the occasion without nerves or pressure and says the squad can’t wait to take on Nigeria in their second group game.
“It’s definitely a different feeling being at your second [World Cup],” she said.
“The energy and hype is still the same, but the nerves and occasion are not as daunting as it was the first time in 2011.
“I know what to expect and this time around I am enjoying myself a lot more, not allowing the pressure get to me.
“Canada has been great, there is a lot of hype here around the World Cup,” she continued.
“Our game against the US on Tuesday was a full house, over 30 000 people came out to watch. As a footballer you can’t ask for anything better. “
Uzunlar reflected on a match of chances not taken as the Matildas fell 3-1 to the Americans however the Sky Blues defender has already set her sights on taking three points from the Nigerians who drew their first match 3-3 with Sweden.
“I was really confident heading into the match,” she said.
“We have been working so hard, and knew we were 100% ready for the game, both physically and mentally.
“I thought we were unlucky in the first half not to be up two or three nil. Hope Solo made some world class saves. Unfortunately, the second half we lost our composure at times and the US capitalised on it.
“Nigeria will be another tough game,” Uzunlar continued.
“Sweden being the favourites against them, I think they surprised everyone coming away with a point. We’ll review that match as a team and focus on what we need to come away with three points against them.”
The Westfield Matildas are next in action on Saturday 13 June against Nigeria (kick off 7am AEST).
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