In a critical Women’s World Cup match against Canada, Australia faced the daunting absence of Sam Kerr, their prolific goal scorer. However, the Matildas found an unexpected hero in Hayley Raso, whose two goals in the first half paved the way for a resounding 4-0 victory, keeping Australia firmly in contention in the tournament they are co-hosting.
A Remarkable Debut on the World Cup Stage
Despite making her debut for the Australian national team back in 2012 at the age of 17, Raso’s early goal in the 9th minute marked her maiden World Cup goal. Her jubilation was evident as she shared, “When I saw the girls put all their hands up, I actually didn’t hear that it was a goal; I just fell to my knees.”
Real Madrid-Bound Raso Seals the Deal
The Real Madrid-bound winger extended Australia’s lead to 2-0 at halftime by completing her brace with a second goal in the 39th minute. The second half saw Mary Fowler and Steph Catley adding to the scoreline in a win-or-go-home group-stage finale for the Matildas.
Emily van Egmond summed up the team’s performance, stating, “We were on the front foot and we were so ruthless tonight.”
The win secured Australia’s place in the round of 16 and, notably, eliminated the reigning Olympic champions from the tournament during the group stage for the first time.
Canada’s Coach Reflects on the Moment
Canada’s coach, Bev Priestman, acknowledged the challenges but remained optimistic, saying, “It was difficult, but we’ll bounce back. These are the moments that make you.”
A loss for Australia would have marked the first time a Women’s World Cup host failed to advance past the group stage. Co-host New Zealand’s campaign had ended the day before.
Fanatical Support and Player Inspiration
Australia’s never-say-die attitude was on full display in front of an enthusiastic crowd of 27,706 fans, bedecked in green and gold in Melbourne. Tony Gustavsson, Australia’s coach, emphasized the fans’ role, stating, “Look at the way they carried the team tonight.”
The tournament has witnessed record-breaking ticket sales, with the Matildas consistently filling stadiums. Demand even prompted the relocation of their opener against Ireland to the larger Stadium Australia, accommodating 76,000 fans.
Kerr’s Absence and Team Spirit
Sam Kerr’s injury sidelined her just before the tournament, and her absence was keenly felt. However, her message to the team – “Make sure to win without me so that I can get another week to train and recover and get healthy” – spurred her teammates on. Australia’s response was emphatic as they secured victory without their star player.
Next Steps for Australia
Australia’s triumph in Group B ensures they will face the second-place team from Group D next Monday in Sydney. Group D, featuring China, Denmark, England, and Haiti, will determine the final group standings and Australia’s round of 16 opponent in upcoming matches on Tuesday.
Originally posted 2023-09-28 15:33:49.
