‘Changed sport forever’: Australia reacts to Matildas’ ‘devastating’ World Cup exit
The Matildas’ fairytale World Cup run was cut short by England, but Australia has fallen in love with a team that is the pride of the nation.
Australians have praised the Matildas for changing sport in this country for good after a heartbreaking semi-final loss to England ended their fairytale World Cup run.
The Lionesses claimed a 3-1 win in Sydney to book their spot in the final against Spain in a clinical performance that had Aussie fans fuming at England’s physicality and time wasting tactics.
Ella Toone opened the scoring with a superb strike into the top corner before Sam Kerr breathed life into the game with an absolute worldie from outside the box to put her stamp on the semi-final.
A defensive lapse saw Lauren Hemp score England’s second before Alessia Russo sealed victory with a counterattacking goal in the dying stages.
Kerr took the game by the scruff of the neck in the second half but will rue chances she missed to equalise.
The Matildas were understandably despondent on the pitch after the final whistle. Hayley Raso was in tears being consoled by teammates.
Kerr, Steph Catley and other senior players looked on with expressions that all but said — “what might have been”.
The Matildas formed a huddle in the middle of Stadium Australia in the shape of a love heart, reflecting a sentiment felt towards them from the Australian public.
Australia’s best ever result at a FIFA World Cup has undoubtedly changed women’s sport and football in this country forever.
Cathy Freeman, who spoke to the Matildas before the World Cup, posted on social media: “So incredibly proud of our girls! You gave it everything and inspired an entire nation!
“Hold your head up high and here’s to the future!”
Not the result we wanted but what a fun journey the Matildas have taken us on. Love everything about the way you have represented 🇦🇺. Great times ahead. 💚💛🇦🇺⚽
— Andrew Gaze (@AndrewGaze10) August 16, 2023
CODE Sports’ Lachlan McKirdy tweeted: “What a run it was. Wasn’t to be tonight but this is a turning point. An entire nation is proud.”
The Daily Telegraph’s Jamie Pandaram said: “Thank you @TheMatildas.
“That was quite some journey, you had us feeling all of it, united the country and changed women’s sport forever.”
Sports journalist Daniel Brettig posted: “Spectators arrived at the Olympic Stadium tonight hoping to see something as big as Cathy from the hosts. Instead, the visitors have outdone Jonny Wilkinson.”
The ABC’s Matthew Doran said: “Devastating. But the legacy of this team will live on for many, many years.”
Australian golf writer Evin Priest said: “Watching England beat Australia in anything is pure torture. Well played. Cool to see the Matildas sweep the nation the past few weeks.”
Richard Hinds added: “The positivity of the #Matildas has been so welcome and refreshing. Being for something without having to be against something.
“Not hating something because you love something else. Quite beautiful really. Thanks.”
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Mark Scott said: “A wonderful ride - and we will talk about that Sam Kerr goal forever.”
The Matildas will have to dust themselves off and prepare to fight for a consolation prize in the third place playoff against Sweden on Saturday.
England will take on Spain in the World Cup final on Sunday at 8pm AEST.
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