At just 17 years old, Tahlia Franco has already established herself as a talented goalkeeper and a rising star in Australian women’s football. Born in June 2006, Franco’s passion for the sport ignited at a young age, nurtured by her upbringing in the Canterbury Football Association, located in the vibrant Inner West of Sydney. Since then, she has achieved remarkable milestones, representing her country and making her mark with Sydney FC Women. Let’s delve into the journey of this remarkable young athlete and explore her achievements both on the national and club level.
In 2022, Franco achieved a significant milestone in her career as a member of the Junior Matildas squad. Alongside fellow Sydney FC Women’s players Shay Hollman and Mary Stanic-Floody, she played an instrumental role in winning the AFF U18 Women’s Championship.
Franco’s prowess between the posts earned her a well-deserved debut for Sydney FC Women on 26th January 2023 after Jada Whyman was ruled out due to injury. Facing off against Melbourne Victory, Franco played a pivotal role in her team’s 6-3 victory, impressing fans and coaches alike with her agility, reflexes, and composure. Her debut marked the beginning of a promising journey with one of Australia’s most successful women’s football clubs.
During the 2022/23 season, Franco and her Sydney FC teammates achieved an impressive feat by clinching the coveted “Double.” The team emerged triumphant in both the Liberty A-League Women Premiership and Championship, solidifying Sydney FC’s position as a dominant force in Australian women’s football.
Franco’s performances and potential have garnered attention beyond her club commitments. She was recently named in the Young Matildas squad, representing Australia in the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers. This accomplishment not only reflects her talent but also signals her selection as one of the most promising young players in the country. With Australia successfully qualifying for the tournament set to take place in 2024, Franco will have an opportunity to showcase her abilities on the international stage once again.
Tahlia Franco’s young career has already been filled with noteworthy accomplishments and promising milestones. As a goalkeeper, she possesses the fundamental skills necessary for success, including excellent shot-stopping ability, distribution, and commanding presence in the box. With her determination, work ethic, and dedication to continuous improvement, Franco has the potential to become a key figure in Australian women’s football for years to come.
Tahlia Franco’s journey from the Canterbury Football Association to Sydney FC Women and beyond exemplifies the remarkable talent present in Australian women’s football. At just 17, she has already made significant strides, winning championships, representing her country, and securing a place in Sydney FC Women’s starting lineup. As her career progresses, it will undoubtedly be exciting to witness Franco’s development and the impact she will continue to make on both the domestic and international stage.
