(Sydney) Australia advanced to the quarter-finals of the FIFA Women’s World Cup by defeating Denmark 2-0 in Sydney on Monday.
Caitlin Foord and Hayley Raso hit the target for Australia, who ensured they weren’t the last big-name team to pack their bags after early eliminations from defending champions USA Germany and from Brazil.
The co-hostesses of the tournament will now face the winners of the duel between the French and the Moroccans.
Australian fans began to believe their side could be crowned world champions after star striker Sam Kerr returned to play a first game in the tournament. She was struggling with a calf injury.
In front of a crowd of 75,784, the “Matildas” had already placed themselves in a good position to advance to the next round before Kerr even entered in the 80th minute.
Foord gave Australia the lead in the 29th minute after accepting a pass from Mary Fowler.
Raso made it 2-0 in the 70th minute, completing Emily van Egmond’s play.
Despite losing star player Lauren James to a red card, England beat Nigeria 4-2 on penalties to draw 0-0.
Nigeria had given themselves an opportunity to win a qualifying match at the Women’s World Cup for the first time in nine appearances at this tournament.
England were, however, able to celebrate when striker Chloe Kelly netted the decisive shot.
European champions England became favorites to claim top honors after Sweden showed the Americans the way out on Sunday.
However, they struggled to create scoring opportunities against the Nigerian defence. With just 25 minutes left in regulation time, James was sent off following a heavy tackle at the expense of an opponent.
The “Lionesses” immediately had to change their formation to a 10-11 scenario, leaving Kelly alone up front.
England now have a date with Colombia or Jamaica.
