Matildas stun England 2-0 in massive World Cup statement

The Matildas have sent a massive statement ahead of a home World Cup, defeating contenders England as Sam Kerr starred.

BRENTFORD, ENGLAND - APRIL 11: Sam Kerr of Australia celebrates after scoring the team's first goal during the Women's International Friendly match between England and Australia at Gtech Community Stadium on April 11, 2023 in Brentford, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Boosted by the return of captain Sam Kerr, the Matildas have beaten England 2-0 to halt the Lionesses’ unbeaten run at 30 matches.

Having lost 1-0 to Scotland last Friday night without the services of Kerr, the Matildas bounced back in style on Wednesday morning (AEST) in London despite England dominating possession.

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Chelsea star Kerr gave Australia the lead in the 32nd minute with her 63rd international goal.

The visitors then doubled their lead 21 minutes into the second half when left-back Charlotte Grant scored her first goal for the Matildas.

European and intercontinental champions England had a host chances to score in the second half but the Matildas held on to record a memorable win ahead of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, which starts in July.

Lid's off #ENGvAUS

— Vince Rugari (@VinceRugari) April 11, 2023

oh my god #ENGvAUS

— Samantha Lewis (@battledinosaur) April 11, 2023

TILLIES TILLIES TILLIES 💚💛 #ENGvAUS

— Dani Brown (@itsdanibrown) April 11, 2023

Amazing win from @TheMatildas - bring on the World Cup

— Charles Croucher (@ccroucher9) April 11, 2023

The major concern to come out of the contest for the Australians was a lower injury suffered by Tameka Yallop that forced the Norway-based attacking midfielder off five minutes before halftime.

The Matildas ended England’s 30-game unbeaten streak. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Yallop, who at the end of the match was in a moon boot and on crutches, had only just returned to the side after recovering from an ankle injury.

Sydney FC’s Cortnee Vine, who came on as a replacement for Yallop, was also forced off late in the match with what seemed to be a calf injury, while Kerr limped off in the dying stages with a jarred knee.

However, post-match, Kerr shrugged off any potential injury concern.

“It was just no risk what what’s coming up,” Kerr told Network 10.

“It’s be a little bit sore in the morning but I’ll be good to go on the weekend.”

The Matildas capitalised on a mistake from England captain Leah Williamson to take the lead in the 32nd minute.

Williamson made a mess of her attempt to head a long ball from Matildas defender Clare Hunt back to her goalkeeper Mary Earps.

Sam Kerr was on fire. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Kerr – who looked marginally off-side when Hunt played the ball – pounced, reaching the ball before the oncoming Earps to lob the ball over the keeper and scored her 63rd goal for the Matildas.

Kerr had the chance to double Australia’s lead in the 50th after running on to a through ball from substitute Cortnee Vine.

However, after Kerr fluffed her shot and failed to hit the target.

England had a chance to equalise on the hour mark, but substitute Lauren James’ shot was well saved by Matildas keeper Mackenzie Arnold.

It was a save to prove crucial, with the Matildas doubling their lead in the 66th minute.

Scorer turned provider, with Kerr delivering a cross to the far post, where left-back Charlotte Grant was on hand to head the ball home with the aid of a deflection off the unfortunate Williamson.

Originally published as Matildas stun England 2-0 in massive World Cup statement