The Canadian women’s over 50 team secured a bronze medal at the World Nations Cup of walking soccer, triumphing over Australia in a penalty shootout on Friday in Torrevieja, Spain.
The match concluded with a 1-1 tie in regulation time, as Canada’s Pauline Fisher netted the opening goal in the first half, only for Australia to equalize with six minutes left in the second half.
The teams remained level after three rounds of penalties, until goalkeeper Fatima Harris converted her penalty, leading Canada to a 2-1 victory in the shootout.
“We were shoulder-to-shoulder, supporting one another during the shootout, and it was a beautiful moment when we ran to Fatima to celebrate,” stated defender Negar Farjadnia.
Harris is a contender for the Golden Glove award after achieving three clean sheets earlier in the tournament and making two crucial saves during the penalty shootout.
Canada concluded the group stage with a record of 3 wins, 1 draw, and 2 losses.
The Canadians faced a narrow loss to France, the eventual champions, in the semifinals, finishing with a score of 1-0.
Canada nearly equalized in stoppage time with a free kick but was unable to convert.
This marks the inaugural entry of a women’s team from Canada in the World Nations Cup.
“Representing Canada at this stage in my life means so much – embodying our values of peace, diversity, and unity on a global platform,” said Farjadnia.
The World Nations Cup, sanctioned by the Federation of International Walking Football Associations, featured teams from 21 countries competing across three age categories for both men and women.
England secured five out of the six titles before falling to France in the final of the women’s over 50 category.
“The women’s division for those over 50 is indicative of the worldwide expansion of walking soccer, showing competitive balance as teams challenged the favored English squad,” commented Team Canada Coach Greg Mitchell.
Tag: rewrite-pending
