July 31, (THEWILL) – Australia’s Women’s National Football Team delivered a commanding performance, clinching a resounding 4-0 victory against Canada to progress into the last 16 of the Women’s World Cup.
The co-hosts, fuelled by an electric crowd of 27,706 fans at the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium, demonstrated unwavering determination to rebound from a prior defeat. Hayley Raso emerged as the standout player, netting twice and leading the charge that eliminated the Olympic champions from the tournament. The triumph elevated Australia to the top of Group B, setting up a clash with the second-placed team from Group D in the next round.
Real Madrid’s Hayley Raso set the tone, breaking the deadlock in the ninth minute with a precise finish into the corner, thanks to captain Steph Catley’s excellent low cross. Despite a goal controversially disallowed, the Matildas maintained their composure, and Raso struck again with a close-range tap-in, reinforcing Australia’s dominance.
A halftime reshuffle by Canada failed to spark a comeback, and Mary Fowler’s goal from a counter-attack extended Australia’s lead. Captain Steph Catley sealed the emphatic triumph with an injury-time penalty, leaving the enthusiastic home crowd in jubilation while ending Canada’s hopes in the tournament. The spotlight before the match centred around Australia’s star striker, Sam Kerr, who was benched due to a calf injury. Nevertheless, her absence did not deter the determined team.
The return of Manchester City’s Mary Fowler provided a boost, and it was the dynamic Raso who provided the dream start with her early goal. Despite Canada’s attempts to rally, Australia’s solid defense and relentless attacking kept them in control throughout the game. The Matildas’ outstanding performance now positions them as Group B leaders, ready to face the second-placed team from Group D in the upcoming knockout stage.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
