Australia too strong for Denmark at FIFA Women's World Cup

By SABC Sport
7th August 2023

Australia's quest to secure their maiden Women's World Cup trophy as hosts gained momentum with a commanding 2-0 triumph over Denmark.

The victory extended their impressive recent record to 12 wins from 14 matches, firmly securing their spot in the quarter-finals.

In the pivotal last-16 encounter, the presence of Sam Kerr on the Australian bench once again sparked intrigue. Meanwhile, Denmark's star player, Pernille Harder, commenced the match with determination at Sydney's iconic Olympic Stadium.

Driven by the desire to validate Bayern Munich's summer acquisition, Harder's potent 25-yard strike, expertly collected by Mackenzie Arnold, narrowly missed granting Denmark an early lead.

In the knockout stages of tournaments, squandered opportunities often bear consequences, and Denmark experienced the harsh reality of this as the half-hour mark approached.

Caitlin Foord capitalized on Mary Fowler's precise delivery to confidently net her first goal of the World Cup, establishing a 1-0 lead in the 29th minute.

As the match unfolded, frustration emerged as Denmark's primary adversary. The outcome was effectively sealed 20 minutes from the final whistle, when Fowler orchestrated the build-up once more, culminating in an unmarked Hayley Raso doubling Australia's advantage with a composed finish.

The introduction of the revered Sam Kerr, gracing the tournament for the first time, further galvanized the Australian supporters, generating an electric atmosphere within the Accor Stadium.

Australia's performance was a solid overall display, propelling them to the quarter-finals for the fourth time in five World Cups. Based on this impressive showing, their prospects of advancing even further, possibly reaching a maiden semi-final, seem auspicious now that Kerr is back in action.

Sadly, Denmark's inaugural World Cup knockout expedition since 1995 encountered unexpected setbacks. Their focus must now shift to UEFA Nations League commitments in September, where they are set to face fellow World Cup contenders Germany.