Kerr didn’t feature in any of Australia’s group games after picking up a calf injury on the eve of the World Cup but she came off the bench against Denmark
Sam Kerr made her long-awaited return from injury to help World Cup co-hosts Australia triumph over Denmark to reach the quarter-finals.
Despite being the poster girl for this World Cup, Kerr didn’t feature in any of the Matildas’ group games after picking up a calf injury in training on the eve of the tournament. The Chelsea striker had declared herself fit ahead of Australia’s decisive Group B clash with Canada, however she remained an unused substitute as Tony Gustavsson’s side romped to a 4-0 victory to book their place in the round-of-16.
Kerr started on the bench again against Denmark on Monday, watching on as Arsenal forward Caitlin Foord fired Australia ahead inside 29 minutes in Sydney. The Matildas doubled their advantage after the break through Hayley Raso, but the biggest cheer of the day was reserved for Kerr’s introduction.
The 29-year-old, who had a big smile on her face as she was called off the bench, was introduced after 80 minutes to help Australia see out the victory. She instantly had fans on their feet, brilliantly spinning her marker and charging into the box before hammering a shot over the bar.