There’s going to be a notable absence in Canada on Saturday when they line up on the pitch in Edmonton for the FIFA Women’s World Cup opener versus China: Diana Matheson won’t be standing there.
The diminutive, skilled midfielder—currently recovering from a long-term knee injury—has been a regular starter for the squad since her debut in 2003, appearing in 166 matches. Only Christine Sinclair has earned more caps for Canada.
Of course, she’s best known for scoring the winning goal in the bronze medal game versus France at the 2012 Olympics in London. No Canadian will forget the image of Matheson putting the ball in the back of the net in the second minute of stoppage time, kissing the Maple Leaf on her jersey and being mobbed by her teammates in celebration.
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Considering her impressive soccer resume, it seems very unfair the 31-year-old won’t be able to suit up for the tournament’s opening game. Matheson is indeed part of Canada’s 23-player World Cup roster and both she and coach John Herdman are optimistic she’ll see playing time over the next month. And when that time does come, it’ll be the culmination of resiliency and hard work.
Matheson was originally hurt last fall in Edmonton during a friendly versus Japan. She took a tumble in the second half and tore the ACL in her left knee. Everyone feared the worst after she went down, including a collective gasp in the press box when it happened. There were mental computations from fans and media alike, trying to figure out how long it would take her to get back out on the pitch after surgery.
Just as her recovery was coming together this spring, she broke her foot. Once again, minds wondered, “Will she be ready?” That’s where we sit today.
Despite the most recent setback, Matheson’s positive attitude has never waned. If you ask her teammates and the coaching staff, they’ll tell you she’s been a motivator, a leader and a very proud Canadian.
Watching from the sidelines is never easy. That hasn’t stopped her from getting involved though, as she’s been happy to lend a hand to market the 24-nation tournament and has been taking part in clinics with youngsters who want to be the next Diana Matheson.
No one can predict the future. However, as one of the longest-tenured members of the team, this could be her fourth and final World Cup. After everything she’s done for soccer in Canada and how hard she’s worked throughout her recovery, it’s only fitting that she gets a chance to play in this historic tournament on home soil.
She deserves that much.