The Matildas have beaten World No. 5 France in their send-off match for the Women’s World Cup thanks to a 66th minute strike from Mary Fowler.
With Sam Kerr and Caitlin Foord both subbed off to manage their minutes, the youngest member of Australia’s squad popped up to clinically finish Hayley Raso’s cutback and beat one of the World Cup favourites on a historic night for Aussie football.
MATCH REPORT: Super sub hands Matildas huge victory in World Cup send-off
ANALYSIS: World Cup ‘lock’ emerges against France as three Matildas questions remain
50,069 people were at Marvel Stadium to watch the final match featuring Australia before the tournament kicks off; the most ever for a standalone Matildas match on home soil.
This is just a taste of what’s to come. That record will fall next week when the Matildas take on Ireland in their opening World Cup match.
France may have a serious concern to worry about after 22-year-old winger Selma Bach was stretchered off in the final moments of this clash, while the Matildas have their own injury concern after Tameka Yallop exited after playing just 19 minutes off the bench.
Minutes later, TV cameras showed devastating images of Yallop limping away, just six days before Australia are due to play their World Cup opener against Ireland.
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ULTIMATE GUIDE: Tony Gustavsson’s checklist for World Cup ‘send-off’ match
D’ANTINO: Arsenal’s Aussie assistant explains why duo are key for World Cup ‘dark horse’
GUSTAVSSON: Matildas boss hints at strategy for World Cup opener ahead of ‘amazing’ sold-out clash
RENARD: France coach’s verdict on Matildas, Sam Kerr & his ‘main focus’ for Melbourne clash
SELECTION HEARTACHE: ‘Holding back tears, like, s*** I didn’t make it’: The emotion & angst of World Cup selection
SQUAD ANALYSIS: Gustavsson leaves door open for last minute World Cup squad twist after ‘game changer’ gamble
MATCH DETAILS
Australia v France
Date: Friday, 14 July 2023
Venue: Marvel Stadium
Kick-Off: 7:30 pm AEST
Broadcast: 10 Bold, 10 Play and Paramount+