The wonderful Matildas and their ardent supporters must learn that they may not always get what they ideally aimed for, but each step forward creates an opportunity for the future. (Game changers even in defeat, 17/8). To be stressing the world No. 2 team in a semi-final when ranked No. 10 is clearly spectacular. No one should focus singularly on the final score and be preoccupied with labeling the whole game a failure when so many enthralling efforts culminated in heartwarming and crowd-rousing opportunities. Sadly, the English team caused some angst with its habitual pushing in the back and time-wasting when ahead. Such unenviable foul play will see a green and gold armada on Mexican waves cheering on the Spaniards. Alan Sexton, North Parramatta 18Aug2023.