Sam Kerr, widely regarded as the best striker in the world, will not start for Australia in their crucial quarterfinal match against France at the FIFA Women’s World Cup. The star player has been sidelined with a calf injury and has only managed to play a mere 10 minutes in the tournament so far.
Australia’s Head Coach, Tony Gustavsson, explained that Kerr’s ability to play a full 90 minutes would ultimately determine whether she would make the starting lineup. If she receives clearance from the medical team, the Australian captain will grace the pitch from the first whistle.
Gustavsson has made the decision to stick with the same starting lineup that propelled them to the round of 16 victory. Emily van Egmond and Mary Fowler will lead the attack in Kerr’s absence. Meanwhile, defender Steph Catley will captain the team in the striker’s place.
As the match unfolds, it remains to be seen how Kerr’s minutes will be managed. Depending on the game’s progress and the team’s needs, she may be called upon as a substitute in a bid to tilt the balance in Australia’s favor.
Unsurprisingly, Australia’s players have expressed their desire to have Kerr on the field. They recognize her as the best striker on the planet and believe her presence could make a significant impact on the outcome of the match.
The Matildas, as the Australian women’s football team is affectionately known, are aiming to secure their first-ever World Cup semifinal spot. The team has shown great determination and skill throughout the tournament and will be looking to continue their impressive run against France. On the other hand, France seeks to advance to the semifinals for the first time since 2011, eager to make a lasting impression on home soil.
Both teams know that this quarterfinal clash will require every ounce of effort and skill to secure victory. As Australia takes to the field against France, fans across the globe will be eagerly anticipating an exhilarating match that could potentially go down in history.
