The 2021 Women’s Football Carnival of Nations came to a conclusion on Sunday, 19 December after four weeks of thrilling on-field action.
Kicking off on November 28, the tournament was played over four consecutive Sundays at the Darebin International Sports Centre.
Participation was at an all time high, with players returning to the pitch in droves to celebrate the return of organised sport in Victoria. All in all, a record 28 teams entered, consisting of 575 players.
Through the month-long tournament, the players, coaches and event staff created fantastic environment, with a social and engaging atmosphere underpinning the competitive football being played on the pitch. It was truly a celebration of women's football.
Sweden was the first team off the mark, opening the scoring on the competition's first day and setting the tone for free-flowing, attacking football. That goal would prove the first of many, as a total of 258 goals were scored in 48 matches.
The social division (Wattle), consisting of seven teams included GO Soccer Mums from Brunswick, Keilor, Hampton and Aspendale. USA and Austria contested the Wattle Grand Final, with the USA claiming the championship in style with an emphatic 5-1 win.
The competitive division (Eucalyptus) had an incredible 21 team entries. Russia won the prize for most goals, bagging 47 throughout their games but ultimately fell just short of making the final, beating Italy 2-0 in the Third Placed playoff.
The top prize in the Eucalyptus division went to Australia, with the Aussies defeating a strong Scotland side 2-0 in the Grand Final.
Football Victoria congratulates the Organising Committee, Co-Chaired by Georg Robers and Jane Cocks, on a wonderful tournament. It was a terrific showcase of football and a perfect opportunity for women to play in a competitive yet social environment.
The event will take place again in 2022, with next year's Carnival scheduled for four consecutive Sundays beginning on the 2nd of October. Teams wishing to register can call 0418 218 175 or visit the website for more information.