Co-hosts Australia secured a well-deserved 1-0 victory over the Republic of Ireland in their opening match of the Women’s World Cup in Sydney.
Stephanie Catley scored from the penalty spot in the 52nd minute, giving the Matildas a perfect start to the tournament.
The absence of star player Sam Kerr, who was injured, was felt by Australia in the goalless first half.
The match showed only glimpses of the Matildas’ dominance as they faced some resistance from Ireland.
Hayley Raso had the hosts’ first significant chance, but her header went wide. On the other hand, Ireland struggled to create opportunities and failed to register a shot on target in the first half.
However, the game’s pace changed dramatically in the second half. Shortly after the break, Raso was fouled in the box, leading to a clear penalty for Australia.
The thrilling encounter unfolded in front of a record-breaking crowd, and the Matildas got off to a strong start in their pursuit of a successful World Cup campaign.
Experienced full-back Catley stepped up and smashed the ball into the top corner, for what was only her third international goal in 55 appearances.
The visitors’ best chances to equalise came through set pieces, with Mackenzie Arnold regularly being tested from corners.
However, the Aussie goalkeeper was equal to them every time.
Katrina Gorry missed a late chance to put Ireland out of sight, but more staunch defending from the hosts was enough to them to see out the game 1-0, and duly secure their seventh clean sheet in nine games.
For their part, Ireland were by no means disgraced, but it gets no easier from here, with an imminent matchup against Canada – a nation that has survived the group stage in each of the previous two WWC editions.