Australia captain and forward, Sam Kerr, suffered a setback as she was ruled out of two games in the Women’s World Cup, including the opening match against Ireland on Thursday. The 29-year-old sustained a calf injury during a training session a day prior to the announcement.
Kerr’s absence is a significant blow for Tony Gustavsson’s 10th-ranked Matildas, as they are considered strong contenders to win their home tournament. The Chelsea striker holds the record for the all-time leading goalscorer for her country, having netted an impressive 63 goals.
“I wanted to share this with everyone so there is no distraction from us doing what we came here to achieve,” Kerr posted on Instagram barely an hour before kick-off.
“Of course I would have loved to have been out there tonight but I can’t wait to be a part of this amazing journey which starts now.”
The team said she would be re-assessed by the medical team after Australia’s second group stage match on July 27th against Nigeria.
Australia enters the tournament with strong momentum, securing victories in nine out of their last ten games.
Notably, they achieved a remarkable 1-0 win over France in a recent friendly and also put an end to England’s 30-game unbeaten streak with a 2-0 victory in April.
However, there were some injury concerns surrounding Sam Kerr after the France game. She was seen with an ice pack on her hamstring when she was substituted in the 62nd minute.
This is the fourth World Cup for Kerr, who spoke about the pride of playing on the global stage in front of a home crowd.
“To be at home and get the feel for it, walk down the streets and see people that are excited or flying around the country to watch us, it’s nice to be able to feel the love,” she said on Wednesday.
“But also we’re really proud to bring this World Cup home and let Australia experience what we do all around the world.”
During Thursday’s match against Ireland, it was anticipated that Stadium Australia would host a capacity crowd. Ireland, making their first appearance at a major tournament, faced Australia in this significant event.
Sam Kerr, who was ruled out due to injury, was seen in the dugout, joining arms with the team’s substitutes as they sang the national anthem.
Fans entering the stadium were crestfallen to hear the news.
“Oh, that’s not good, that’s very bad, that’s awful, she’s the best player we have so that’s bad for us,” said supporter Matt Starr.
“Very sad, we’re very sad, we came to see Sam Kerr but still Australia to win,” said fan Sue Moar.
Lisa Schibezi called the news “devastating” and hopes Australia make it through the group stage so Kerr has the opportunity to play in Sydney.
“Because this is our only chance to see her in Sydney so if they don’t make it through, we don’t get to see her play in Sydney, so just really really hope she’s okay and we get to see her again,” she said.