Canada’s women over 50 secured a bronze medal at the World Nations Cup of walking soccer by defeating Australia in a penalty shootout in Torrevieja, Spain. The match ended in a 1-1 draw in regular time, with Pauline Fisher scoring for Canada in the first half and Australia equalizing in the second half.
The intense contest went to a penalty shootout, where goalkeeper Fatima Harris became the hero by scoring from the spot, leading Canada to a 2-1 victory. Defender Negar Farjadnia described the team’s unity during the shootout as they celebrated Harris’ decisive goal.
Harris, who had an outstanding performance throughout the tournament with three clean sheets and crucial saves in the shootout, is now in contention for the Golden Glove award. Canada concluded the group stage with a record of 3 wins, 1 draw, and 2 losses.
Despite a valiant effort, Canada fell to eventual champions France in the semifinals with a narrow 1-0 defeat. The Canadian team almost equalized in stoppage time but fell short in their comeback bid. This marked Canada’s debut in the women’s division of the World Nations Cup.
Farjadnia expressed the significance of representing Canada on the global stage, emphasizing the values of peace, diversity, and unity. The World Nations Cup, organized by the Federation of International Walking Football Associations, featured teams from 21 countries competing across various age categories.
England dominated the tournament by claiming five out of six titles, with France clinching the victory in the women’s over 50 final against England. Team Canada Coach Greg Mitchell praised the competitiveness of the women’s over 50 division, highlighting the growth and parity in walking soccer on a global scale.
