Junior Matildas cap off impressive tournament in style

The Junior Matildas have maintained their perfect record at the AFC U-16 Women’s Championship Qualifiers in Vietnam with a 9-1 win over Uzbekistan overnight.

Australia had already qualified for next year's tournament after crushing wins over Palestine (28-0), Hong Kong (14-0), Iraq (8-0) and Vietnam (6-0). 

And the Aussies continued their free-scoring form with Jacynta Galabadaarachchi's brace helping Ante Juric's race to a 3-0 lead inside 31 minutes. 

Sofia Sakalis netted her own brace as Australia took a 5-0 advantage into the break and completed a hat-trick with just over 20 minutes remaining. 

The Junior Matildas added three more goals in the final 15 minutes with Uzbekistan netting a consolation in the 85th minute. 

Mini Matildas

"This victory was a nice way to cap things off, leaving us undefeated. Though more importantly with a positive brand of football and with a great team ethos," Juric said post-match. 

"The girls have been impeccable on and off the field here in Vietnam, and now also have a good understanding of the importance of a professional culture, which has been instilled in this team and recent junior national teams.

"This team has continued with being disciplined on and off the field and that has been evident by the way they have performed with a positivity and a willingness to play for each other at every moment. 

"I'm extremely proud of this group, though only part one of the job is done. Part two will be looking to qualify for the World Cup at next years AFC championships."