Australians Shine in Global Football: Weekly Highlights and Standouts

Highlights of the Week

Football360 compiles a weekly roundup of standout performances by Australians in various leagues, including the A-League, NPL, and international competitions. Recent matches saw some Matildas and Socceroos shine while an Aussie coach continued his winning streak in Asia.

Team of the Week

Here’s a look at Football360’s latest selections for the Team of the Week.

Starting XI

Goalkeeper: Mat Ryan (Levante)

The captain of the Socceroos, Mat Ryan, displayed remarkable skill, saving a penalty and preserving a clean sheet during Levante's scoreless draw against Malaga in LaLiga. His early save in the match underscored his defensive prowess.

Left-back: Charli Grant (Malmo)

Charli Grant netted a late equalizer for Malmo in their 1-1 draw against Aivi Luik’s Hacken, scoring in stoppage time to secure a hard-fought point in the Swedish Damallsvenska.

Centre-back: Steph Catley (Arsenal)

In the Women’s Super League opener, Steph Catley helped Arsenal clinch a 1-0 victory over Brighton and Hove Albion, boasting impressive statistics with 93 touches and 75 successful passes.

Centre-back: Alanna Kennedy (London City Lionesses)

With two interceptions and three clearances, Alanna Kennedy played a critical role in London City's 2-1 win against Manchester United, contributing to their impressive start in the WSL.

Right-back: Ellie Carpenter (Chelsea)

Ellie Carpenter was instrumental in Chelsea's attack, assisting Lauren James’ early goal during a 1-1 draw against Aston Villa in their first match of the season.

Midfield: Ajdin Hrustic (Al-Nasr)

Making an immediate impact in Dubai, Ajdin Hrustic scored early in Al-Nasr’s match, though they ultimately fell 2-1 to Ajman.

Midfielder: Alana Murphy (Nottingham Forest)

Alana Murphy marked her debut WSL goal for Nottingham Forest in their 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town, breaking the stalemate in the second half.

Midfield: Daniela Galic (Vittsjo)

Daniela Galic excelled with a brace in Vittsjo's 5-0 thrashing of Uppsala, showcasing her goal-scoring ability as her team cruised to victory.

Forward: Caleb Watts (Plymouth)

Caleb Watts made a substantial impact for Plymouth Argyle with a goal and an assist in their thrilling 3-2 comeback win against Doncaster.

Forward: Mohamed Toure (Norwich City)

Mohamed Toure continued his scoring streak with a goal in Norwich City's 3-1 victory over Sheffield United, marking his third league goal of the season and his 12th Championship goal since his debut.

Forward: Mary Fowler (Manchester City)

Mary Fowler showcased her talent with a goal in Manchester City's 3-1 opening round win against Birmingham City, earning an impressive 8.2 Sofascore rating.

Substitutes

Paul Izzo (Randers)

Izzo achieved his first clean sheet in the Danish Superliga, recorded with three saves during Randers' 3-0 triumph over Brondby.

Ryan Strain (Falkirk)

Strain assisted in Falkirk’s scoring during a 1-1 draw against Dundee United, directing a corner that led to the equalizer.

Kaitlyn Torpey (Newcastle United)

Torpey contributed significantly in Newcastle's season opener, featuring in their 2-0 win over Wolves with a solid defensive display.

Alessandro Circati (Benfica)

Circati made his debut for Benfica, helping secure a clean sheet in their 3-0 victory against Maritimo.

Anthony Caceres (Bangkok United)

Caceres marked his presence with an assist in Bangkok United's convincing 3-1 win over Sisaket United.

Jason Cummings (CAHCMC)

Cummings capped off his debut in Vietnam with a goal, helping Ho Chi Minh City FC secure a 3-1 victory over Hanoi FC.

Asad Kasumovic (Adelaide City)

Kasumovic played a pivotal role in Adelaide City's 6-0 thrashing of Playford City, scoring twice and contributing to their path to the NPL SA Grand Final.

Presley Ortiz (APIA Leichhardt)

The joint NPL NSW Golden Boot winner, Ortiz, scored in a crucial match as APIA Leichhardt defeated NWS Spirit 3-0 to advance to the Grand Final.

Coach

Giancarlo Italiano (Lee Man FC)

Italiano is making waves in the Hong Kong Premier League with an unblemished record, securing three wins in as many matches, including a 3-0 victory over HKFC this past weekend. His squad has scored nine goals without conceding thus far in the season.