Words from the dugout: The Perth Azzurri NPLWA Senior Women’s Head Coach, Tom Glavovic reflects on a historic test against the Indian National Team.
Yesterday marked a historic milestone for Perth Azzurri.
For the first time in our club’s history, our Senior Women’s team shared the pitch with a senior international side, facing off against the India Women’s National Team as they prepare for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup.
It was an occasion filled with immense pride—not just for the players who crossed the white line, but as a validation of our entire program and the future of this club. The match was structured into two 45-minute halves, allowing us to field two distinct line-ups.
Our opening 45 minutes were nothing short of outstanding. The Azzurri girls delivered a performance built on confidence, bravery, and tactical discipline.
We didn’t just compete; we took a deserved 1–0 lead, proving that our style of football holds its own against international opposition.
While India found an equaliser in the dying moments to send us into halftime at 1–1, that first half was an exceptional display of football. It was a 45-minute performance that perfectly reflected the character and belief within our dressing room.
Our identity works, even against some of the best in the world. The second half was about opportunity. We introduced a fresh group heavily featuring our U21s and emerging youth players.
If we want to build a dynasty, our young players need to experience the intensity of international-level football. They fully embraced the moment.
The desire, work ethic, and commitment to the Azzurri brand of football were clear for everyone at the ground to see.
While India’s experience ultimately saw them win the match overall in the second half, the final aggregate scoreline does not define the performance. Both halves showcased the depth, potential, and undeniable future of Perth Azzurri Women.
This fixture was about more than just a result. It was about growth, belief, and setting a brand-new benchmark for our women’s program. To compete the way we did against a national team gives us enormous confidence moving forward and reinforces that the tireless work being done behind the scenes is building something truly special.
I am extremely proud of every single player involved and grateful for the opportunity to test ourselves on this stage.
Now, we recover, review, and look ahead with excitement to our next international friendly on Wednesday.
The journey continues…