Michelle Heyman bags four goals on return from Matildas retirement as Australia all-but seal place at Paris Olympics

Michelle Heyman has dispelled any doubts about potential ring rust with a spectacular return to the Matildas, scoring an incredible four goals against Uzbekistan.

The Australians, who had a 3-0 lead from the first leg against their Asian rivals, scored five goals in just over 20 minutes to all but confirm their place at the Paris Olympics, barring the most unlikely change.

And Heyman played a big role in his team’s impressive start to the game. The 35-year-old scored in the fourth, eighth and 16th minutes to surprise the Uzbeks, after they conceded an own goal in the first minute of the match.

It marked a sensational return to the international fold for Heyman, who had earned a shock return to Tony Gustavsson’s team after retiring from the Matildas in May 2019.

Kaitlyn Torpey added the fifth goal in the 22nd minute before Manchester City star Mary Fowler and Arsenal striker Caitlin Foord came into action before the break. Heyman scored his fourth of the night from close range just before halftime.

Heyman scored on his return to the team in the 3-0 first leg win last week, finishing off a Steph Catley corner in the 72nd minute, and continued where he left off at Marvel Stadium on Wednesday night.

“To play for my country again, to come in and score a goal is a dream come true,” Heyman said after the first-leg victory.

“It’s what I wanted and I’m really happy I got it; it’s a really nice feeling.”

More to follow.