Denmark’s Karen Holmgaard (L) and Australia’s Hayley Raso battle for the ball during the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 Round of 16 soccer match between Australia and Denmark at Stadium Australia. Bianca De Marchi/AAP/dpaCo-hosts Australia never looked in trouble and reached the quarter-finals of the women’s World Cup with an 2-0 win over Denmark on Monday.
The Matildas have never made it past the quarter-finals at a World Cup, but will have the chance to achieve their best result at home against either France or Morocco, who play on Tuesday.
Caitlin Foord broke the deadlock in the 29th, sprinting down the left to conclude a fantastic counter-attack for Australia. Hayley Raso then smashed the ball into the net in the 71st to seal their spot in the quarters.
But the big crowd at the Stadium Australia was again euphoric when top star Sam Kerr came on for her first appearance at her home World Cup, which Australia is co-hosting with New Zealand.
Kerr was forced to sit out during the group stage due to a calf injury picked at the eve of the tournament.
Denmark had the better of the possession and territory, especially in the first half, but struggled to be dangerous in front of the goal for all their dominance.
Denmark’s Emma Snerle (L) and Australia’s Katrina Gorry battle for the ball during the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 Round of 16 soccer match between Australia and Denmark at Stadium Australia. Bianca De Marchi/AAP/dpa
Australia’s Caitlin Foord (R) in action during the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 Round of 16 soccer match between Australia and Denmark at Stadium Australia. Dean Lewins/AAP/dpa
