We’re set to take part in the Toulouse International Ladies Cup on Friday night, when we face Montpellier at Stade Michel Bendichou.
THE OPPOSITION
Montpellier are one of the most successful women’s sides in French football and that was once again backed up last season, as they reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League and recorded a third-placed finish in the Division 1 Feminine.
Montpellier have now finished in the top three in each of their last three league campaigns.
They’re a dangerous attacking side with European experience, and if we want to come away with a win then we’ll need to starve Valerie Gauvin and Stina Blackstenius of service. The duo scored 12 and 13 league goals respectively last season, placing them in the top five of the division’s goalscoring charts.
ONE TO WATCH
Vivianne Miedema comes into this fixture in fine form, having fired four goals past Juventus Women in our last pre-season outing.
She’s a clinical finisher with both feet and she’s also a serious aerial threat, often boasting a physical edge over her marker.
But her influence on the side runs far deeper than just her impact in the box.
“Viv is a special player,” said Joe Montemurro after the game. “She’s a special thinker and a special asset to any team.
“She’s not just a No 9, she’s also good in the build-up and has the ability to identify space, control the match and bring others into the game.
“She’s got all the attributes to be, for me, one of the best players in the world.”
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