Tameka Yallop has been ruled out of the Matildas' opening Olympics clash with Germany because of injury, offering a dream opportunity for her Brisbane Roar teammate Sharn Freier to step in.
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The Australian women's team were forced into the late change hours before their tough start against Olympic powerhouse Germany in Marseille on Thursday with the 33-year-old veteran midfielder Yallop still not ready for a recall after two contact injuries she suffered in early July.
Yallop, who had to be withdrawn from the Olympic warm-up against Canada on July 13, will be replaced by Freier, who celebrated her 23rd birthday on Wednesday and now has the chance to make her Olympic debut.
Yallop has returned to full training and is expected to be fit to be back in the 18-player squad for the Matildas' next match against Zambia in Nice on Sunday.
Australian Associated Press
