Melbourne City women have returned from Bangkok after a perfect AFC Women’s Champions League (AWCL) Group Stage, going undefeated to qualify for the Quarter Final in 2025.
City defeated Irani side Bam Khatoon FC 2-1, secured a 3-0 win over College of Asian Scholars and rounded out the group stage with a massive 4-0 victory against Kaya FC-Iloilo.
Two young Greek Australians also made their debut for the club during the fixture, Anastasia Kyriacou and Alexia Apostolakis.
Kyriacou shared her excitement and pride about being selected in the squad for the AFC Women’s Championship League.
She described the moment to Neos Kosmos, when she received the call-up as an injury replacement for Sophia Varley from Goalkeeper coach Ben Morella, as surreal, filled with a mix of disbelief and joy.
“It was a dream come true,” she said, emphasising how much she had worked for this opportunity.
“It’s an honour to represent Melbourne City FC as well as my country on such a prestigious platform.
“The adrenaline rush of being part of a team at the highest level is something I’ll always cherish.”
Kyriacou, who turns 15 next month, also shared her gratitude to her coaches and teammates for their support throughout her career.
They’ve all contributed to her selection and she thanked the MCFC coaching staff and players for believing in her, in particular Ben Morella and Melissa Barbieri.
“Where else in the world would I be able to train side by side with one of our country’s best – if not the best, in Bubs.”
Meanwhile Young Matildas star Alexia Apostolakis opened up on how much it means to make her debut for the club.
“It felt so amazing to make my debut for this awesome Club, watching it from an outside perspective over the last few years has been so amazing to watch, and being in this environment right now is something so special,” the 18-year-old said in a club write up.
“I’m really grateful to all the girls and all the staff here who have really supported me and pushed me into this role, and getting that [first] win is just so amazing and I feel really part of the team.”
The AWCL campaign now pauses as City shifts their focus back home, where they will host Perth Glory in the season opener in a few weeks.
The AWCL Quarter Final draw will be held in January ahead of City hosting a do-or-die fixture on home soil in March.
