Sam Kerr named on bench for Matildas’ World Cup QF

Anna Harrington | August 12, 2023

Sam Kerr has been named on the bench for the Matildas’ Women’s World Cup quarter-final against France as coach Tony Gustavsson decided on an unchanged starting line-up.

Gustavsson had said if Kerr was fit to play 90 minutes, she would start.

Instead, the star striker is set to be an impact substitute after a cameo appearance in the 2-0 quarter-final win over Denmark.

Caitlin Foord will revisit her tantalising partnership with Steph Catley on the left, with Mary Fowler and Emily van Egmond completing Australia’s front four.

France have dropped right-back Eve Perriset for Maelle Lakrar, in the only change to their line-up.

The winner will earn a semi-final berth against either England or Colombia, who play later on Saturday, in Sydney next Wednesday.

AUSTRALIA STARTING XI VS FRANCE

Mackenzie Arnold (GK); Steph Catley (C), Alanna Kennedy, Clare Hunt, Ellie Carpenter; Katrina Gorry, Kyra Cooney-Cross, Caitlin Foord, Hayley Raso, Emily van Egmond, Mary Fowler