Unstoppable Matildas Secure Quarter-Final Berth in Spectacular Fashion: Foord and Raso Shine in Australia's Victory over Denmark

Australia secured their place in the quarter-finals of the 2023 Women's World Cup with a convincing 2-0 triumph against Denmark. Caitlin Foord, the Arsenal forward, propelled the tournament's co-hosts towards victory with a precise goal, scored approximately 30 minutes into the match at Stadium Australia.

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Caitlin Foord of Arsenal seized lead for the Matildas at Stadium Australia. Hayley Raso extended the Matildas' advantage with 20 minutes remaining, and there was an additional boost when Sam Kerr, who had been sidelined with a calf injury since the tournament began, joined the action for the final 10 minutes.

Hosts Australia secure safe passage to last eight

In their quest for victory, Denmark showcased an aggressive approach by applying high pressure and displaying early intent. Pernille Harder, a renowned former Chelsea striker, posed a significant threat with her persistent runs, and she tested Mackenzie Arnold with a powerful strike just 15 minutes into the game.

Australia seized the lead less than 30 minutes into the game. Mary Fowler skillfully delivered a well-executed pass to Foord on the left side, causing goalkeeper Lene Christiansen to move away from her position. Foord then expertly scored with a precise and powerful low shot.

Shortly thereafter, Foord came close to scoring a second goal. She intercepted a seemingly hopeless situation on the left side, evaded Rikke Sevecke, and struck a shot that deflected and narrowly missed its mark.

The Danes persistently attempted to regain their position after the break, but their offensive efforts lacked genuine determination. With only 20 minutes remaining in the game, their chances of recovery were completely diminished.

Fowler skillfully passed the ball to Emily van Egmond, who received it with her back facing the goal and then passed it to Raso. Despite being off balance, Raso skillfully shot the ball low into the bottom left corner.

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Sam Kerr made her tournament debut as a substitute, as Gustavsson seized the opportunity to grant the Chelsea forward her first appearance in the competition. This concluded a highly successful day in Sydney, with the game nearly reaching its conclusion.

What's next?

Australia will encounter either France or Morocco in the quarterfinals. The match between the two nations will take place on Tuesday August 8, with kick-off scheduled for 12pm.

The quarterfinal match is set to occur on Saturday August 12 at 8am.

What is the schedule?

The round of 16 is slated to occur from August 5 to August 8, encompassing eight matches that will be contested in various locations throughout Australia and New Zealand.

Following the round of 16, the quarter-finals are set to take place on August 11 and 12, and will be hosted in Wellington, Auckland, Brisbane, and Sydney.

The first semi-final is scheduled to take place in Auckland on August 15, while the other semi-final will be held on August 16 at the Accor Stadium in Sydney. The final will also be held at the Accor Stadium on August 20. Prior to the final, a third-place play-off will be played in Brisbane on August 19.