FIFA Women’s World Cup: Australia’s road to victory in their round of 16 clash against Denmark

The Matildas played like world beaters as the underdogs against Canada, but now, as favourites, they’ll have to embrace the weight of expectation to get over Denmark, writes Robbie Slater.

MELBOURNE, JULY 31, 2023: 2023 FIFA Womens World Cup – Australia V Canada. Hayley Raso of the Matildas scores the second goal during the match at Melbourne Rectangular Stadium. Picture: Mark Stewart

Having embraced their underdog status against Canada, the Matildas must now deal with the pressure of favouritism in their FIFA Women’s World Cup round-of-16 clash with Denmark on Monday night.

The last time the Matildas were expected to win a match, things went pear-shaped and they lost 3-2 to Nigeria.

However, they responded – in what on paper was supposed to be a tougher clash against the Canadians – in resounding style by thrashing the reigning Olympic champions 4-0.

It’s a win that has many people believing that Australia can win the World Cup.

However, the Matildas can’t afford to be complacent against the Danes.

There is always the danger that after such a massive high that the team experienced last Monday, a low could follow.

Hayley Raso scores against Canada. Picture: Mark Stewart

The Matildas can’t afford an off night because a poor performance will condemn them to a premature exit from the tournament and have them joining the likes of Germany, Canada and Brazil as eliminated nations who have failed to live up to expectations.

Hopefully, a crowd of close to 80,000 people will ensure a spine-tingling atmosphere that will give the Matildas no choice but to play with the same passion, skill and determination that was evident against the Canadians.

That win came without Sam Kerr, and regardless of how her calf is feeling, there is no need for her to start on Monday.

Yes, I know I called for Kerr to start against Canada despite doubts about the calf, but that came on the back of the Matildas’ disappointing display against Nigeria.

The Australians have since proven they can win in style without the services of their captain, so hopefully coach Tony Gustavsson sticks with the same starting team that served him, and the nation, so well last week.

Heartbreak for Australia as they go down 3-2 to Nigeria. Picture Lachie Millard

While Kerr needs some game time sooner or later, she should only be used if required on Monday to ensure her calf has even more time to heal before next weekend’s quarter-final.

That’s of course if the Matildas get that far, but there is no doubt in my mind they will.

Gustavsson’s decision to move Caitlin Foord to the left against Canada, and use Mary Fowler and Emily van Egmond as false No. 9s was a masterstroke.

Fowler is again set to play a huge role against the Danes, as will the in-form Hayley Raso on the right with her pace.

Foord’s combination with left-back Steph Catley, which has developed beautifully in their time together at Arsenal, will also be crucial to Australia’s hopes.

The stage is set for another memorable night at Stadium Australia. Denmark won’t be pushovers, but the Matildas are primed to take another step on the road to becoming world champions.

Originally published as FIFA Women’s World Cup: Australia’s road to victory in their round of 16 clash against Denmark