Ahead of the final match of Group B of the 2023 Women's World Cup, Canada and Nigeria have the advantage with 4 points each. Despite being in a difficult position with only 3 points, co-host Australia had a sublime match. In the first half, Australia led the reigning Olympic champion Canada 2-0 thanks to a brace of goals from Hayley Raso in the 9th and 39th minutes.

A move in the match between Australia and Canada. Photo: Getty

In the second half, the advantage continued to tilt towards Australia. The co-host nation scored two more goals, both from direct attacks. In the 58th minute, an Australian player dribbled down the wing before passing back to Mary Fowler, who tapped the ball from about 6m out, scoring to make the score 3-0 for Australia.

In the 90+4 minute, Katrina Gorry was illegally tackled by Jessie Fleming of Canada in the 16m50 area. Referee Stéphanie Frappart (French), after consulting VAR technology, decided to award Australia a penalty. From the 11m mark, captain Steph Catley scored accurately, sealing a 4-0 victory for Australia.

The joy of Australian women's players after defeating Canada. Photo: Getty

Defeating Canada 4-0, the Australian women's team topped Group B with 6 points after 3 matches, earning a ticket to the knockout round. Meanwhile, with 4 points, the reigning Olympic champion Canada was eliminated. Because in the match at the same time, Nigeria drew 0-0 with the Republic of Ireland, thereby winning second place in Group B with 5 points, and also winning the right to enter the round of 16.

HOAI PHUONG

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