Tony Gustavsson insists Matildas drubbing can have long-term benefits

• A reality check can be healthy,' says coach after team's 7-0 loss
• Australia next play world No 30 Portugal on Wednesday AEST

The 7-0 hammering by Spain on the weekend could yet reap future benefits for Australian football, according to under-fire Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson.

An experimental Matildas team capitulated in the second half against the Women's Euros-bound side, conceding six goals after the break, having largely contained their hosts during the first half in Huelva.