‘We have to beg for permission’: Why there isn’t more African talent in the Matildas

and will soon change the face of the Socceroos, if they haven’t already. It’s just the latest chapter in the age-old story of Australian football, which has always been the truest reflection of the country’s ethnic diversity and shifting demographics.

“For way, way too long, we’ve been trying to get a seat at the table, to get recognised as women in the African community - not just the background, but actually on the playing field,” said Philicia Kabia, one of the architects of a new tournament designed to address this discrepancy. Kabia loves the game, too, but never really got the chance to play it herself. Since 2014, she’s been helping run the Burkina Faso team at the African Cup NSW, an annual tournament showcasing the incredible talent within African-Australian communities which has become a highlight of the local football calendar.

“Imagine a 23-year-old coming to your parents and saying, ‘Hey, Mum and Dad, I want to go play for a state-league team.’ They will look at you and laugh, and they will tell you no. And you can’t argue because it’s just in our blood - we can’t argue with our parents. We have no choices.”She remembers once pointing out Princess Ibini to her grandmother. “I said to her, ‘She’s killing it, she’s amazing. Maybe one day I’ll be like that.’ And then my grandma said, ‘Oh, it’s just luck.

Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines

Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.

‘We have to beg for permission’: Why there isn’t more African talent in the MatildasWhile African talent is tearing up the A-League Men and reaching the Socceroos, only two women from the continent’s diaspora have represented the Matildas. A new tournament aims to address this discrepancy.
Source: brisbanetimes - 🏆 13. / 67 Read more »

Matildas midfielder Katrina Gorry suffers injury scareKatrina Gorry, a midfielder for the Matildas, has suffered an injury while playing for West Ham. The extent of the injury is yet to be determined, but it could potentially rule her out of an upcoming match against Mexico.
Source: 7NewsAustralia - 🏆 11. / 71 Read more »

Matildas veteran Emily Gielnik’s bizarre act sparks ‘extraordinary’ fight with Newcastle Jets7NEWS brings you the latest local news from Australia and around the world. Stay up to date with all of the breaking sport, politics, entertainment, finance, weather and business headlines. Today's news, live updates & all the latest breaking stories from 7NEWS.
Source: 7NewsAustralia - 🏆 11. / 71 Read more »

Matildas drawn with United States and Germany in 2024 Paris Olympics group stageThe Matildas' hopes of winning a historic Olympic gold medal will face an early test after they were drawn alongside two heavyweights in the preliminary rounds for the Paris Games.
Source: abcnews - 🏆 5. / 83 Read more »

Matildas set for tough Olympic challenge in ParisThe Matildas have been drawn in a challenging group for the 2024 Paris games.
Source: SkyNewsAust - 🏆 7. / 78 Read more »

Matildas’ tricky path to first-ever Olympic medal as Aussies drawn into powerhouse groupOlympics: The Tillies have learned who their Group opponents will be at the Paris Olympics, as they look to secure a medal for Australia.
Source: FOXSportsAUS - 🏆 24. / 51 Read more »