Australia’s head coach, Tony Gustavsson, has created an air of excitement and uncertainty as he withholds the decision on whether team captain Sam Kerr will be featured in the starting lineup for the Matildas’ groundbreaking World Cup semifinal clash against reigning European champions, England.
The eagerly awaited match is scheduled for Wednesday night at the renowned Stadium Australia, with a massive audience of over 75,000 expected to fill the stands. The victor of this duel will proceed to the final to face Spain on Sunday, as reported by Xinhua.
Australia is making history by competing in their inaugural World Cup semifinal. Meanwhile, England has achieved the distinction of becoming the second team to secure a spot in the last four in three consecutive Women’s World Cup events.
Speaking on the eve of this pivotal encounter, Coach Gustavsson has opted to keep the suspense alive by not confirming whether Sam Kerr, the all-time highest goal-scorer for Australia, will be part of his starting eleven.
Kerr, a prolific striker, was unable to participate in the group stage due to a calf injury. However, she has made appearances off the bench in both knockout matches, notably contributing for 65 minutes in the triumphant penalty shootout victory over France.
Gustavsson explained, “We chose to have her on the bench because we were uncertain about the duration she could play following her calf injury and limited training. Her determination and recovery have been truly remarkable, both mentally and physically. She’s recuperated well and participated in training today, indicating her availability.”
Notably, Kerr has demonstrated a remarkable record against English goalkeeper Mary Earps, having netted nine goals and assisted three more for both club and country against the Manchester United shot-stopper.
Should the 29-year-old striker secure a spot in the starting lineup for the first time in the tournament, it’s likely to come at the expense of either midfielder Emily van Egmond, who she was subbed in for against France, or winger Hayley Raso.
Anticipation for this match has elevated it to a historic moment in Australian football, with an estimated audience of more than five million projected to tune in via television and live viewing sites across the nation.
The 2023 World Cup, co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand, spans from July 20 to August 20. Worth noting, the unique format advances only the top two teams from each of the eight groups to the round of 16, making it the first-ever Women’s World Cup to showcase 32 competing teams.
-IANS
