Perth: Australia booked their place in the final of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over China in a gripping semifinal clash at Optus Stadium on Tuesday.
Led by captain Sam Kerr, the Matildas produced a clinical second-half performance to edge past a resilient Chinese side and move within touching distance of continental glory.
Australia struck first in the 17th minute through Caitlin Foord, who finished off a slick attacking move sparked by Ellie Carpenter and Mary Fowler. The early goal ignited the home crowd and set the tone for an intense encounter.
China responded in the 26th minute when Zhang Linyan converted from the penalty spot after a defensive lapse inside the Australian box, bringing the contest back on level terms.
With momentum swinging and both sides creating chances, the match hung in the balance until the 58th minute when Kerr delivered the decisive moment.
Latching onto a precise pass from Foord, the striker showed composure and class to round the goalkeeper and slot home from a tight angle, scoring her fourth goal of the tournament.
Despite late pressure from China, Australia held firm to secure the win and advance to the final, where they will face either Japan or South Korea.
Speaking after the match, Australia head coach Joe Montemurro acknowledged his team’s achievement but stressed the need for improvement ahead of the final. “Our objective to reach the final is done, but we know we have to be better,” he said.
The victory keeps Australia on course for their first Asian Cup title since 2010, with Kerr once again proving the difference on the big stage.
Source: ESPN
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