The Matildas grabbed a hard-fought 1-0 win against Korea Republic in Sydney, thanks to an own goal from Lim Seon-Joo. This victory was a much-needed lift for Australia, who’ve been struggling with form and injuries recently. The game’s only goal came from Emily van Egmond’s cross, which was accidentally headed in by the Korean defender just after half-time, in front of 37,199 fans at Allianz Stadium. Own Goal Gifts Matildas Victory.
Interim coach Tom Sermanni had a tough job with key players like Katrina Gorry, Ellie Carpenter, and Hayley Raso out. To add to the challenges, goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold failed a late fitness test, meaning more changes to the lineup.
A Fresh Starting XI for Australia
With several player changes, the Matildas rolled out a different lineup compared to their usual SheBelieves Cup squad. Jamilla Rankin made her first national team start since 2020 at left-back, while Winonah Heatley teamed up with Kyra Cooney-Cross in midfield. Mary Fowler, a notable player, started on the bench and came on in the 72nd minute.
Even with some key absences, Australia played well, with captain Sam Kerr still on the sidelines recovering from an ACL injury. The Matildas looked to attack early on, with Cooney-Cross and Holly McNamara creating some chances. Own Goal Gifts Matildas Victory.
Korea Republic Picks Up the Pace
Tameka Yallop had the first real chance in the 14th minute, winning the ball high up the pitch and taking a long shot that forced a good save from Kim Min-Jung. As the first half went on, Korea Republic started finding their rhythm. Star midfielder Ji So-Yun, who had previously eliminated the Matildas from the 2022 Asian Cup, began to have more influence on the game.
Korea came close to scoring with attempts from Ji So-Yun, Lee Geum-Min, and Lee Young-Ju, putting Australia under pressure. Still, the Matildas ended the half strong, with McNamara helping Caitlin Foord set up a shot that was saved by Min-Jung.
Breakthrough Moment
Australia kept up their energy into the second half and finally got the goal they needed. Foord’s run in midfield gave Van Egmond the chance to send in a cross that deflected off Lim Seon-Joo and went in, leaving Min-Jung with no chance. While there was a bit of luck involved, it was enough for the win.
Despite taking the lead, Australia couldn’t dominate possession. Cooney-Cross struggled in midfield, which stopped the Matildas from controlling the game fully.
Late Chances and Defense Hold Strong
Foord and McNamara continued to put pressure on the Korean defense. Foord set up McNamara in the 68th minute, but the shot went straight to Min-Jung. Later, substitute Fowler almost doubled the lead, slipping past the defense but missing the target with her shot.
Korea Republic pushed hard for an equalizer late in the game. Shin Na-Yeong got a free header off a corner, and Kang Chae-Rim’s volley went over the bar. In response, Sermanni brought on Clare Hunt to strengthen the defense, helping the Matildas secure the win.
Despite a last-minute long-range shot from Choo Hyo-Joo, Australia held their ground, keeping a clean sheet for their fourth win under Sermanni’s interim coaching.
Looking Ahead
The next friendly match in this series is set for Monday, April 7th, in Newcastle. With this win boosting their confidence, Australia aims to build on their performance and continue developing their squad for future competitions.
