The Matildas’ FIFA Women’s World Cup journey is still going strong after securing a place in the quarter-finals. Goals from Caitlin Foord and Hayley Raso propelled Australia past Denmark. Sam Kerr’s return from injury was the icing on the cake for Australia, who will now face either France or Morocco in the next round. Let’s take a closer look at how each Australian player performed.
Mackenzie Arnold (6.5): Although she had a few shaky moments, Arnold remained relatively untroubled and made a smart save at the near post from a Denmark corner in the first half.
Steph Catley (7): While she didn’t display the same attacking energy she did against Canada, Catley provided solid defensive cover on Australia’s left side and gradually pushed forward as the game progressed.
Caitlin Foord (9): Foord was exceptional throughout the match, terrorizing the Danish defense with her speed and skill. She deservedly scored Australia’s opening goal after receiving a fantastic through ball from Mary Fowler.
Emily van Egmond (7): Struggling in an unfamiliar position up top in the first half, van Egmond looked more comfortable and contributed with an assist in the second half.
Mary Fowler (8.5): Alongside Foord, Fowler was one of Australia’s standout players, showcasing her silky touches and providing a brilliant through ball for Australia’s first goal. She also played a crucial role in the second goal.
Alanna Kennedy (7): Once again, Kennedy proved her worth alongside Clare Hunt, demonstrating her leadership and experience at the heart of the defense.
Clare Hunt (7.5): Despite a nervous start, Hunt grew into the game and displayed her composure and class on the ball as the match progressed.
Hayley Raso (6.5): Raso posed a threat early on but struggled in possession when under pressure. However, she managed to sweep home Australia’s second goal after receiving a cushioned assist from Van Egmond.
Katrina Gorry (6): Gorry delivered her usual energetic performance but at times struggled to control the tempo in midfield and was loose with her passing.
Ellie Carpenter (6.5): Utilizing her pace to provide defensive cover, Carpenter put in a solid overall performance, although she didn’t have many opportunities to push forward.
Kyra Cooney-Cross (7.5): Cooney-Cross stood out as Australia’s best midfielder, displaying her neat passing game and controlling the tempo of the match. She also contributed to the second goal.
Substitutes: Sam Kerr, who came on in the 79th minute, looked sharp and lively during her first appearance of the tournament, although she missed a chance from a slight angle. Cortnee Vine, also coming on in the 79th minute, didn’t have many touches but replaced an underwhelming Raso.
Overall, the Matildas put in a convincing performance to secure a 2-0 victory over Denmark, thanks to the contributions of each player on the field. With Sam Kerr’s return, Australia’s prospects in the quarter-finals look promising.
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Matildas v Denmark in pictures: Australia celebrates after Sam Kerr’s return helps book quarter-final spot.
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Hasibur Rahaman is a passionate sports journalist. He covers everything from cricket to field hockey, delivering up-to-the-minute updates and in-depth analysis of sporting events, both within India and on the international stage.
