By Our man in Vietnam
HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM – The air was thick with humidity and the weight of expectation at the Thong Nhat Stadium yesterday, but it was nothing compared to the crushing weight Melbourne City FC placed upon Lion City Sailors FC.
The Australian giants kicked off their AFC Champions League Women Group A campaign in blistering form, delivering a stunning 5-0 demolition of their Singaporean rivals.
The pitch in Ho Chi Minh City, acting as a central hub for this stage of the competition, proved to be a vibrant canvas for City’s attacking brilliance.
City’s squad, who travelled to Vietnam determined to make a statement, ensured that every goal had the look of a side playing with continental pedigree. The Lion City Sailors’ defence was breached repeatedly under the floodlights of the Thong Nhat, a venue that now holds a grim memory for the Singapore outfit.
Holly McNamara was the standout star, bagging a quick-fire first-half brace before being sensibly rested at the break. But the goals didn’t stop there.
Alexia Apostolakis and youngster Danella Butrus were among the other scorers as the Australian side ran riot, securing a comprehensive victory that sends an immediate message to the rest of the group.
The result puts Melbourne City at the summit of Group A and sets them up perfectly for their next encounter against Stallion Laguna.
For the Lion City Sailors, the famous Thong Nhat Stadium—a ground steeped in history—is where they must quickly regroup if they are to salvage their campaign.
Final Score: Melbourne City FC 5-0 Lion City Sailors FC
