Canada’s women over 50 secured a bronze medal at the World Nations Cup of walking soccer by triumphing over Australia in a penalty shootout in Torrevieja, Spain. The game ended in a 1-1 tie during regulation play, with Pauline Fisher scoring for Canada in the first half and Australia equalizing with six minutes left in the second half. The intense match went into a penalty shootout, where goalkeeper Fatima Harris sealed the victory for Canada with a crucial goal, resulting in a 2-1 win.
Defender Negar Farjadnia described the team’s unity during the shootout as they celebrated with Harris after her winning goal. Harris is being considered for the Golden Glove award due to her exceptional performance throughout the tournament, including three clean sheets and two crucial saves in the shootout.
Canada concluded the group stage with a record of 3 wins, 1 draw, and 2 losses, falling to eventual champions France in the semifinals with a narrow 1-0 defeat. Despite a close opportunity to equalize in stoppage time, Canada fell short in their bid to advance further. This marked Canada’s inaugural participation in the women’s category of the World Nations Cup.
Farjadnia expressed the significance of representing Canada on a global platform, 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 across three men’s and three women’s age groups. England dominated the competition by securing five out of six titles, with France emerging victorious in the women’s over 50 category by defeating England in the final.
Team Canada Coach Greg Mitchell commended the competitive nature of the women’s over 50 division, highlighting the growing popularity and global appeal of walking soccer with teams challenging the traditionally strong English side.