Former New Zealand women’s national team coach Tom Sermanni has been named as interim head coach of Australia’s Matildas.
Sermanni (70) will step into the role to help out while Football Australia continues its search to replace previous head coach Tony Gustavsson.
Sermanni is the longest serving coach of the Matildas having previously coached them from 1994-1997 and 2005-2012.
Main photo: Tom Sermanni … coached the Football Ferns from 2018-2021. Photo: Shane Wenzlick / Phototek.
Football Australia CEO James Johnson said: “With over three decades of football experience in Australia and internationally, his extensive knowledge of the global women’s football landscape, the local Australian game and his previous success with the team make him the ideal candidate to guide the CommBank Matildas through this transitional period.”
Sermanni coached the Football Ferns from November 2018 till the appointment of Jitka Klimková in 2021.
During his term, New Zealand played 25 internationals, winning nine, drawing one and losing 15. His teams scored 54 goals and conceded 38.
“It’s an honour to return to the CommBank Matildas, even in this interim capacity,” Sermanni said.
“I’m looking forward to working with this talented group of players and helping to ensure a smooth transition as Football Australia continues its search for a permanent head coach. My immediate priority is to prepare the team for the upcoming international window.”
This story was first published on September 17, 2024.
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