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Sam Kerr reflects on the Matildas’ ‘amazing’ World Cup campaign

Matthew Hart
Aug 20, 2023
Superstar captain Sam Kerr who told reporters that although the loss was disappointing the last few weeks have "been a dream come true". Source: Getty Images.

The Matildas’ World Cup campaign has drawn to a close and although Australia was unable to secure the bronze medal in their final match, superstar captain Sam Kerr said the last few weeks have “been a dream come true”.

The Matildas missed out on a third-place finish at the FIFA Women’s World Cup after losing 2-0 to Sweden at Brisbane Stadium on Saturday, August 19.

Sweden took control early in the match, maintaining possession during much of the first half.

Sweden took the lead after a VAR (video assistant referee) review led to a penalty for Sweden, converted by Fridolina Rolfo after Stina Blackstenius was brought down by Clare Hunt.

The Matildas rallied briefly but struggled to create clear chances. The first half ended with Australia trailing by just one goal.

Soon after the second half began, Sweden extended their advantage after Kosovare Asllani’s strike found the net.

An opportunity arose for the Matildas from a free kick. Clare Hunt’s header reached Clare Polkinghorne, but her shot was saved.

Despite some late chances, Australia couldn’t convert, and Sweden emerged victorious.

While it was a disappointing finish, the Matildas made history by securing fourth place which is the best an Australian team has ever achieved at a FIFA World Cup.

The incredible achievement wasn’t lost on superstar captain Sam Kerr who told reporters that although the loss was disappointing, “we have to reflect and think of how amazing this is”.

“The way the fans have got behind us, the way the girls have carried themselves. We’ve proven to the world but also within Australia that we are a footballing nation,” she said after the match.

“That’s all down to the fans. We couldn’t get it done, but hopefully we’ve inspired people for many years to come.

“It’s sad that it’s come to an end.

“This has been the best four weeks of our careers. It would have been nice to go out on a high.

“We’ve never come fourth before, although it’s disappointing I think we’ll think back to this in a couple of weeks and be really proud of how we did.”

Fans were certainly proud of what the Matildas’ achieved with social media platforms quickly inundated with messages of praise for the team’s remarkable efforts.

The Matildas will now shift their focus to this year’s Olympic qualifiers for Paris 2024.

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