Canada 0-4 Australia: Australia secures Women's World Cup last-16 spot with stunning performances

Posted : 31 July 2023

Australia kept their Women's World Cup dream alive with a stunning performance, thrashing Canada to secure their spot in the last-16 stage.

Hayley Raso stood out with a brace, while Mary Fowler and Steph Catley also found the net, including a late penalty. This impressive display was crucial as the co-hosts needed a victory to avoid elimination.

The Matildas finished at the top of Group B, achieving this feat without the presence of their captain, Sam Kerr, who was declared fit but remained an unused substitute throughout the match.

Canada's defeat marked their first group-stage exit at the Women's World Cup since 2011.

With Nigeria drawing against the Republic of Ireland, Australia is set to face the runners-up from Group D, possibly including England, in the next round at Stadium Australia in Sydney on 7 August.

Leading up to this game, Australia faced immense pressure and uncertainty, especially concerning Sam Kerr's fitness. Her absence in the first two games due to a calf injury added to the tension surrounding the team's World Cup campaign.

On the day of the match, Kerr was named on the bench but did not participate in the warm-ups, watching from the sidelines in her coat while chewing gum.

Despite the uncertainty, Australia's starting eleven displayed immense determination and skill, outpacing and outplaying Canada from the start. In front of a passionate, near-capacity crowd at the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium, the Matildas were quick and dynamic.

The crowd erupted with joy when Hayley Raso received a low cross from Steph Catley and skillfully found the bottom corner of the net. Though Mary Fowler appeared to double the lead, the goal was disallowed after a VAR review showed an offside infringement by Ellie Carpenter.

However, Raso's second goal before halftime further strengthened Australia's position. The fans were on their feet again when Caitlin Foord set up Fowler for a close-range conversion off the post. And when Steph Catley converted a penalty after Jessie Fleming fouled Katrina Gorry, the crowd was in full celebration mode.

With this emphatic victory, Australia looks forward to continuing their World Cup journey, much to the delight of their passionate fans. Regardless of Sam Kerr's involvement, the co-hosts are eager to shine in their own party on the world stage.

Canada 0-4 Australia: Australia secures Women's World Cup last-16 spot with stunning performances

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics