Natasha Prior and Emily Gielnik Represent Ninja A-League in Matildas Clash

In a spirited performance against Brazil, Natasha Prior and Emily Gielnik brought fresh energy to the CommBank Matildas in their 2-1 defeat to the 2024 Olympic silver medallists. The match, held before a record-breaking crowd on the Gold Coast, marked significant milestones for both players and underscored the depth of talent in the Ninja A-League.

Natasha Prior’s International Bow

Newcastle Jets’ Natasha Prior entered the fray at half-time, replacing Clare Hunt to make her much-anticipated international debut. The 26-year-old added a new defensive dimension as the Matildas battled a formidable Brazilian attack. Her debut coincided with a historic occasion—the final match for Clare Polkinghorne and Emily van Egmond’s 150th international appearance.

Speaking to Network 10 post-match, Prior reflected on the experience: “It was very exciting. So good to be around the team and to celebrate the milestones with Em’s 150th and Polks’ sign-off.” She credited her father, Spencer Prior—a former Premier League defender and Matildas assistant coach—for calming her nerves before the game. “A lot of coffees and some simple advice: ‘Don’t mess up. Be confident. Slow the play down,’” she said.

Emily Gielnik’s Triumphant Return

Emily Gielnik, the Melbourne Victory forward and current Ninja A-League Golden Boot leader, made her first appearance in the Green and Gold since October 2022. Entering the match in the 60th minute, Gielnik demonstrated her characteristic poise and attacking flair, rekindling her presence on the international stage.

Interim Matildas head coach Tom Sermanni praised both players’ contributions, stating: “Natasha came through fantastically. This is what’s so important for us—putting players in challenging environments and watching them rise to the occasion.”

Ninja A-League Stars Represent

Prior and Gielnik were among several Ninja A-League talents on the field. Canberra United icon Michelle Heyman and Brisbane Roar captain Tameka Yallop started the match, while Brisbane’s Sharn Frier added energy off the bench. Together, these players highlighted the league’s vital role in shaping Australia’s international roster.

Looking Ahead

While the Matildas faced back-to-back losses to Brazil, the emergence of players like Natasha Prior and the return of seasoned professionals like Emily Gielnik signal a promising future. With a focus on blending experience with youth, Australia’s football prospects continue to grow stronger.