Kerr’s Matildas embrace do-or-die World Cup clash with Canada
The Matildas have their backs to the wall and their Women’s World Cup on the line. But defender Ellie Carpenter reckons that’s just how they like it.
And with Sam Kerr once more in their corner, the tournament co-hosts have got every reason to believe they can pull off the great escape and avoid an ignominious first-round exit.
Sam Kerr during the Matildas’ training session on Sunday. Getty
Co-hosts New Zealand became the first host nation to be eliminated from the group stage at a Women’s World Cup after a 0-0 draw with Switzerland on Sunday night in Dunedin.
Australia, on three points, must beat Canada, who have four, at a packed AAMI Park in Melbourne on Monday night to guarantee passage to the round of 16.
A win could even deliver top spot in Group B.
Otherwise, they will have to draw and rely on Ireland, still pointless, to beat Nigeria (four points) in the game that kicks off in Brisbane at the same time. Ireland will likely have to win by two or more goals to avoid Australia exiting their home World Cup at the group stage.
If the cards don’t fall into place, it will be the first time the Matildas have not reached the knockouts since 2003, and after Thursday’s disastrous 3-2 loss to Nigeria, coach Tony Gustavsson’s job could well be on the line.
“I feel like we always have our backs against the wall in big pressure moments and it’s not new to us,” Carpenter told reporters.
“And, honestly, I feel like we’re the best when we have our backs to the wall.
“It’s a do-or-die game and, with our spirit, we all know we have to leave everything out there on Monday.”
Gustavsson is clearly feeling the heat.
Kerr pulled the boots on late in the 15-minute training window accessible to media on Sunday, after completing her
Read more on afr.com
